The American Dog Magazine - Fall 2009 by The American Dog Magazine

Biovet Testimonials Kaya, a 13-year-old Husky-Lab mix. She had severe hip and arthritis pain in her hind legs. Four days after taking the Biovet Antioxidant Pet Wafer, her pain subsided. After just seven days, she is able to walk normally. Thank you Biovet! - S. Lamb Hopi, a 15-year-old yellow lab. She had lost her strength in her hind legs. Thanks to Biovet Pet Wafer, her quality of life has improved. She is back to chasing cats again. - D. Durazo The Biovet Pet Wafer has brought back the sparkle in my dogs’ eyes. Their coats are soft and silky again, thanks to Biovet. The best part is that they look forward to their daily “treat.” They love the taste. - T. Costa Riley is half bull mastiff and half lab. He has Lymphoma, and the Chemo has made his hind legs weak and wobbly. Thanks to Biovet Dismutase, he is improving. Thank you, Biovet. - E. Cushing A 10-year-old Border Collie Mix could not stand on his hind legs. The right leg had atrophied and he could not put weight on it for two years. Thanks to Dismutase, in two days he was walking. In just one week, he was putting weight on the leg he had not used in two years. - M. Mitchell Sylvie, a long-haired miniature Dachshund, had become paralyzed in her back legs. Thirteen months after surgery and twice-daily doses of Dismutase, Sylvie walked again! Thank you, Biovet. - M. Fisher

For more information please call toll free: (800) 468-7578

www.bioVet.net

The “Missing Link” In Pet Holistic Oral Health Care PetzLife Products, Inc. offers a safe, effective alternative to scaling and anesthesia, the usual process for dental cleaning with pets. The company produces 100% AllNatural Oral Care products, including Oral Care Spray and Oral Care Gel, which help remove plaque and tartar, reverse oral disease, promote healthy gums, brighten teeth and kill bacteria that cause bad breath. The secret is a proprietary blend of grapefruit seed extract and other all-natural herbs and ingredients. The company’s Oral Care Gel with Wild Salmon Oil also adds the Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that aid in optimal health … and the salmon flavor is great for finicky cats. These products are so efficacious and safe that they’re even used by the Dolphin Research Center. “The PetzLife products fill a void on how to naturally and safely care for pets, especially for their teeth.” said Bud Groth, CEO, PetzLife Products. “PetzLife is receiving strong demand and referrals the more consumers learn about the product lines.” According to Michael Fox, DVM, and co-author of Not Fit for a Dog! The Truth About Manufactured Dog and Cat Food, “Safe and effective dental health products, like PetzLife Oral

Care, are the missing link in holistic pet health care.” Elizabette Cohen, veterinarian and radio pet reporter on WCBS880.com worldwide, loves the fact that these products are all-natural and easy to use. “Wow! After using the product for one week, I saw results,” she said. PetzLife also produces @-Eaze—Calming Support for Pets. When applied directly or mixed with food or treats, @-Ease works within minutes to help promote a restful relaxed state without causing reduced alertness. It helps relieve stress and anxiety in pets. In addition, the company also offers a complete line of shampoos, conditioners and aromatherapy mists. About PetzLife Products, Inc. PetzLife Products, Inc., is an animal wellness company dedicated to creating innovative, all-natural products that improve pets’ lives. All PetzLife products are human grade, and every ingredient is sourced from reputable suppliers and made in the United States. Founded by avid animal lovers, the company estimates that it has saved more than 5,000 pets’ lives to date, and helped protect 72,000+ from injury caused by anesthesia complications alone. The company also supports many animal rescues around the country. PetzLife Products, Inc. has received numerous accolades from prominent industry publications including Animal Wellness, Pet Age and Pet Business.

For more information: PetzLife Products, Inc. 888-453-4682 www.petzlife.com.

6 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

Socialization,Training

&Commitment

features 18 Cover Story

Sean “Hollywood” Hamilton 24 Socializing Your Dog From Training Classes to Dog Parks to Going Shopping 37 Training Your Dog Don’t Dump the Dog with Expert Advice From Top Trainers to Overcoming Obstacles and Bad Behavior 53 Are you in a Successful, Committed Relationship with Your Dog? 68 White House Pooch, Bo, Needs a Friend 70 Pets, Lies and Legislation 126 Howliday Gift Guide

Fall 2009 VOLUME 2, ISSUE 4

the dog scene 80 82

AP OF LUXURY L Deluxe Bedding for Dogs EW PRODUCTS N New Dog Food Products

84 CELEBRITY PROFILE 86

Josh Lucas

REED SPECIFIC LEGISLATION B A “Cure” Worse than the Disease

88 AUTHOR PROFILE 89 90 92

Tamira C. Thayne

UTHOR PROFILE A Randy Grimm ORKING DOGS W Canines Helping Autistic Kids ON-PROFIT N Animal Acres

94 NON-PROFIT 97

Strangest Angels Animal Rescue ET BUSINESS PROFILE P Beds N Biscuits

98 PET BUSINESS PROFILE Sara England Designs

101 PET BUSINESS PROFILE Fetching Fashions

102 PET BUSINESS PROFILE Canine Rehabilitation

10 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

TABLE OF

CONTENTS (cont’d) Fall 2009

departments 14 Publisher’s Note 16 Our Contributors

124 Everyday Doggie Heroes

Bulldog, Riley, Saves his Family 132 Bedtime Books to Read 132 Bedtime Books for Kids

columns 104

Dog Safety

columns (con’t)

106

Nutrition

Superoxide Dismutase

110

Toxic Plants to Avoid Rejected Meat Explaining the 4 D’s

Health

Natural Remedies 112 W ellness Lack of Nutrition

Dogs frolicking at Wynettka Ponds Bark Park in Littleton, CO. Photo by Shannon Worgan.

12 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

114 S upplements 116

Dr.’s Corner

Food Toxicities 120 Dog Law Victims of Domestic Violence

122

Dog law

Civil Lawsuits

Publisher’s Note Jamie M. Downey, Founder/Publisher with Chester, Cheyenne and Casey

Founder/Publisher Jamie M. Downey Associate Publisher Heather Green Associate Directors Sharyn Berglund Nancy Allen Editor in Chief Jamie M. Downey Editorial Director Lauren Wineberg Art Director Jane Brunton Editor at Large Julia Szabo Senior Editor David Revierter Photographer Heather Green

WOOF! Cassie here. I talked my mom into letting me write her publisher’s note

and I have to say, this is my favorite issue of The American Dog so far! It's all about socialization, training, and commitment, with expert advice from the country's top trainers, so I know it will help keep dogs out of shelters. This is a topic I know something about: I was dumped by my first family on the streets to fend for myself, which didn’t work out too well for me. Do you know how hard it is to catch a bird or a squirrel when you are starving, dehydrated, sickly, and severely underweight? Well, I found it impossible, and it was slim pickings in the garbage cans I managed to scrounge through. When the animal control officers cornered me I couldn’t escape, and ended up being incarcerated at the pound in Southern Illinois. Unaware of the fact that this particular shelter gasses dogs and cats to death, my fate was sealed. Or so I thought. With only two days left before it was my turn to enter the gas chamber, an angel stepped forward, Ileana Pullos, founder of Fortunate Lab Rescue, and pulled me out in the nick of time! I will be forever grateful to her for saving my life. But I am even more thankful that she was a friend of my mom’s, and emailed her to talk about the beautiful Chocolate Labs that she had available for adoption. My mom couldn’t resist the pathetic-looking picture of me and now I have a wonderful forever home with a chocolate brother and sister. I'm one of the happiest dogs in the world! I wish all American dogs could be as lucky as me. If everyone would adopt their next dog out of a shelter, we could stop the horrible euthanizing of five million pets per year. Shelter dogs make great companions and family members, and they’ll promise to be good if you’ll just give them a chance! So please enjoy this issue. I hope it inspires you to cherish and protect your best friends. And please consider adopting your next dog from a rescue group or your local animal shelter.

Managing Editor Casey Rodarbal Photo Editor Shannon Worgan Senior Copy Editor Deborah Johnson Copy Editor Christiana Nelson Advertising Director Jamie M. Downey Production Coordinator Kim Thornton Distribution Manager John Haddock Business Manager Ann Jamison Subscription Manager Wanda Hoff Web Site Design/Manager Jen Griggs-Sebastian Contributing Photographers Seth Casteel, Heather Green, Shannon Worgan, Jamie Downey, Carole Raphaelle Davis, Elle Whittlesbach, Stacy Bodell, Jeanine Boubil, Jennifer Emery, Christopher W Johnson, Jill Latham, Katie Monahan, Nicole Kowalewski, John Orlando, Neil Ziozower, Jesse Larmer Contributing Writers Dr. Elisa Mazzaferro, Julia Szabo, Carole Raphaelle Davis, Anna Morrison-Ricordati, Gabriela Sandoval, Tamra Monahan, Robert Kavanaugh, Randy Grim, Brett Titus, Doug and Elizabeth Simpson, Jim Willis Michael Wombacher, Lori Moreland, Deb Dempsey, Cindy Nelson, Julie Bielenberg, Elizabeth Bublitz, Kelly Dorafshar, Jana Kohl How to reach us: The Dog Publishing, LLC Dba The American Dog 20269 E. Smoky Hill Rd. #B-136 Centennial, CO 80015 Phone: (303) 840-6111 (Colorado) info@theamericandogmag.com www.theamericandogmag.com For advertising inquiries advertise@theamericandogmag.com Letters to the Editor/Story Ideas: Email to: editor@theamericandogmag.com

Sincerely, Cassie The American Dog Family

Subscription rate is $20 per year within the United States, Add $20 postage per year for Canadian subscriptions. We do not ship to foreign countries. U.S. funds only. Subscribe online: www. theamericandogmag.com

Subscribers: If the postal service alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year. Email change of address to: subscribe@theamericandogmag.com Postmaster: Please forward change of address to: The Dog Publishing, LLC 20269 E. Smoky Hill Rd. #B-136 Centennial, CO 80015

Heather Green, Associate Publisher with Bella, Remington and Jaidyn

14 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Copyright 2009 No part of this publication may be reproduced without expressed written permission of the publisher. No part may be transmitted in any form by any means, including electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written permission from the publisher. Publisher accepts no liability for solicited or unsolicited materials that are damaged or lost. Views expressed by editorial contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.

Our Contributors Dr. Elisa Mazzaferro

Vererinarian Dr. Elisa Mazzaferro is an internationally-recognized criticalist, author and lecturer. She leads the Emergency and Critical Care team at Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital in Wheat Ridge, CO. She has a variety of dogs and cats, including an adorable pug, Vincent Charles. She is a certified Jazzercise instructor and enjoys cooking, gardening and growing orchids.

Anna Morrison-Ricordati

Julia Szabo

Columnist, Author, Animal Advocate Julia writes Pets columns for the Sunday New York Post and Country Living. A member of the advisory boards of North Shore Animal League America and The Toby Project, she lives in New York with her beloved family of rescued dogs, who appear in her new book, Pretty Pet-Friendly: Easy Ways to Keep Spot’s Digs Stylish and Spotless (Howell Book House).

Attorney at Law Anna Morrison-Ricordati is an attorney practicing animal welfare law and general civil litigation in Chicago, Illinois. Her practice includes overturning dangerous dog rulings to assisting animal related notfor-profit organizations with various legal issues. As an advocate, Anna seeks to protect animals from abuse under existing laws and further seeks to extend animal protection through legislative change.

Carole Raphaelle Davis

Gabriela Sandoval

Jim Willis

Doug and Elizabeth Simpson

Deb Dempsey

Attorney at Law Attorney Gabriela Sandoval is licensed to practice law in Colorado and Virginia. In October 2007, Gabriela turned her mission to advocate for the most vulnerable members of society into a reality by launching her own child and animal focused law practice. For more information, visit her Web site at www.animalawyer.com or call the Denver office at (303) 954-4580.

Dog Trainers Doug & Elizabeth Simpson have been working with animals all of their lives, and love to share their natural method of dog training with the goal of creating as many happy families as they can. They live on a wonderful little animal haven in Boulder, Colorado, and have been featured in many magazines, television shows and radio.

Author, Animal Advocate Carole Raphaelle Davis is an actress, animal welfare advocate and author of The Diary of Jinky, Dog of a Hollywood Wife. Carole is currently working on a new book and an investigation of pet factories that supply the public through pet shops and the Internet. Her Web site is: www.HollywoodJinky.com.

Author, Animal Advocate Jim Willis’ animal-related books have been published in eight countries, including the best-selling Pieces of My Heart—Writings Inspired by Animals and Nature and his essay about an unwanted dog, “How Could You?” Willis is one of the most published animal advocates in the world. In 2008, he was named the USA-East Ambassador for World Animal Day, observed every year on October 4th.

Business Owner, Writer Deb is co-owner of Mouthful’s Pet Boutique, a hip and trendy shop located in Denver, Colorado and her company also manufactures their own line of natural treats for dogs and cats. Deb spends a huge amount of time researching pet health, nutrition, wellness and hygiene for all the products, foods and treats she carries in her store and keeps abreast of all the information regarding the pet industry.

Robert Kavanaugh, B.S.C., C.P.A. Brett Titus

K-9 SWAT Officer, Dog Trainer Brett is president of the Colorado Police K-9 Association and is actively involved in training dogs, schutzhund training and showing as well as performing his duties as a full-time SWAT police officer with the K-9 unit in Denver.

Michael Wombacher

Dog Trainer Michael Wombacher is an author, lecturer and expert dog trainer for Bay Area celebrities and families, with over 20 years of hands-on training experience. Michael has written two dog training books, and offers the only digital book on how to prepare your dog for the arrival of a new baby, entitled Good Dog, Happy Baby. He is currently working on his first TV show.

16 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Business Owner Bob is the proprietor of Agrigenic Food Company. Based in Huntington Beach, CA, the company manufactures and distributes their Biotec Foods, Biomed Foods and Biovet International lines of dietary supplements and feed supplements. Bob has dedicated the majority of his career to understanding and developing antioxidant enzyme agonists for use in humans and companion animals.

Lorileigh Moreland

Business Owner, Writer Lori (along with her Newfoundland Magic) established Pet Empawrium & Spaw in 2002 for furfamilies with discriminating taste and aboveaverage involvement with their canine (and feline) fur-children. She now brings her knowledge, passion, and customer service to Arvada, Colorado.

COVER STORY

“Hollywood” Hamilton 18 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Sean “Hollywood” Hamilton along with his beautiful wife, Marina and Shiba Inus, Dino and Frankie.

By Julia Szabo Photos by Heather Green

hen Sean "Hollywood" Hamilton talks, people listen—5.7 million fans tune in to hear him every weekday on the radio. As the host of the Weekend Top 30 Countdown and the Remix Top 40 Countdown, his strong voice resonates across the airwaves in more than 250 cities, plus he appears live weekday afternoons on WKTU in New York City. In April of this year, Hollywood became the host of the coveted afternoon drive time, from 3-7 p.m., on KBIG. This makes him Clear Channel's only "music" radio personality to have an afternoon show broadcasting in both New York and Los Angeles, Monday through Friday. It's a sweet life for a guy who's loved talking on-air since he was a teen; the 1990 Christian Slater movie Pump Up the Volume was based on Hollywood's experience running a pirate station out of his parents' basement in Reno, Nevada. He was pulled off the air by the FCC, but that brief gig and the notoriety it earned him got Hollywood his first job in radio. Now, many jobs later, when he's not on the air, two loyal, longtime listeners manage to capture and hold Hollywood's attention without making a sound: His two strong-willed-but-silent Shiba Inus, Dino and Frankie. Named after legendary Rat Pack figures Dean Martin and

Frank Sinatra, Dino's the dark one and Frankie's the blonde. "We're thinking of getting a Sammy," Hollywood says with a smile. Of course, Sammy the Shiba would be named for yet another Rat Pack legend: Sammy Davis Jr. His voice, personality, and reach are huge, but Hollywood Hamilton stands five foot seven inches tall. Likewise, his dogs are big personalities in compact, twenty-pound packages. Hollywood puts it more succinctly: "I'm petite, and so are these dogs!" He's appeared in an advertisement for the LancÔme men's fragrance Drakkar Noir, but his dogs sport their own signature scent ... by Dolce & Gabbana! Dino has even appeared on air with Hollywood. While Dino sat in the studio listening to his master's voice, Hollywood's audience was encouraged to call in and do what they could to make Dino bark for a chance to win $100. So many callers succeeded in making this otherwise quiet dog pipe up that the producers had to discontinue the contest or risk going broke! Proving that all dogs are individuals, even dogs of the same breed, Hollywood catalogues the duo's differences: "Frankie's an Aries, Dino is a Gemini...Frankie sheds, Dino doesn't... Dino's the dominant one, and he's aggressive with other dogs, but Frankie is really calm... Frankie doesn't like to sleep with us, Dino does... Dino chases balls like a jackrabbit—he

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 19

got hurt once running after a ball, and dislocated his hip. Dino could definitely play for the Padres, but Frankie couldn't care less about the ball." Frankie, age 5, is a homebody, but Dino, 6, has his eye on the territory ahead of the rest. "If given a chance, Dino will run for freedom at any given time," Hollywood explains. "He's run away four times—once he was gone for four days, and after a massive search he showed up on our doorstep; this was during hurricane season. Another time, we were on vacation in Mexico; fireworks went off on the beach and Dino went missing for 18 hours." (Many dogs suffer stress in stormy weather conditions, hence the recent invention of the "Anxiety Wrap," a vest designed to calm thunder-phobic pets.) However, these very different dogs do have two important things in common: both share a love of romping in the snow and swimming in the ocean. And so, Dino and Frankie have accompanied their favorite couple on many exciting excursions, including camping and boating in Lake Tahoe, where they wore flotation vests for safety. This sit-down with The American Dog is the Shibas' first official interview/photo shoot. "I've never been a dog person until these two dogs," Hollywood confides. "I always liked the independence and the personality of the cat—and I love the fact that these dogs are very feline." The smallest and most ancient of Japan's native breeds, the Shiba does indeed

20 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

exhibit many catlike tendencies: climbing, nimble-footed agility, keeping themselves quite clean, and—last but not least—an independent streak (plus a habit of looking down on other creatures, including us mere humans). And Dino and Frankie are textbook Shibas in that regard: captivatingly catlike canines. Like all great love affairs, this one happened without warning. "One day about six years ago my wife Marina and I were jogging through Runyon Canyon in the Hollywood Hills," Hollywood recalls. "We saw a dog just like Dino and asked where can we get one?" Marina, an accomplished singer-songwriter, had been a dog lover since childhood, but that day in the Hills, Hollywood underwent a major conversion. To paraphrase a Sinatra song, the Shiba got under his skin. Today, the dynamic dog duo enjoy the run of the couple's Jersey City apartment. Stay tuned for glimpses of Dino and Frankie in Hollywood's latest project: the reality series based on his life that his production company, Mischief Media, is developing. We suspect his charismatic canines—merry mischief-makers in their own right—will secure a walk-on, or several. "These are the first dogs I've ever been attached to," Hollywood concludes. "They are deeply loved." Check out www.weekendtop30.com or become a fan on facebook: Sean Hollywood Hamilton.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 21

Is your backyard

pet friendly? National Landscape Design Serving All 50 States Residential and Commercial Full Service Design Firm

America’s Pet Friendly Landscape Firm • landscape design

• outdoor living

• water features

• specialty gardens

• xeriscaping

• walkways & courtyards

877-223-8744 www.pawfriendlylandscapes.com

Socializing your Dog

ust as children are taught manners and right from wrong at a young age, your dog also needs to be educated as to what is acceptable behavior. The payoff is that you’ll have a friendly, confident, happy dog who gets along with everybody and everything.

Socializing your dog is a lifelong process, so start as early as possible. It’s important to have your dog interact in an environment with other dogs, people, kids, traffic, crowds, and loud noises so he learns how to respond and cope in an appropriate manner and become comfortable in new or unfamiliar surroundings. Dogs are territorial by nature, and you want to involve and reward your dog with positive experiences around other dogs, toys, food, and people so he’ll refrain from developing bad habits—like growling, snaping, or biting—when he becomes

24 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

frightened or nervous. Exposing your dog to different kinds of animals, people, and environments would include anything from a trip to Home Depot or the vet’s office, to joining you for a yappy hour. These activities can help your dog develop confidence and stability in all types of situations. A well-adjusted, socialized dog is a happy dog, and makes for a great relationship between both of you. You can take your happy dog anyplace and have him stay calm and relaxed, so you'll both have a great time. The American Dog encourages all dog owners to treat dogs like the members of the family they are. Spend quality time with pooches on outings to the dog park, shopping at pet boutiques, scheduling play dates— or drop them off at doggie daycare for a whole day of fun!

Training Classes are an Important Part of Socializing Your Dog   Having a dog in your life is one of the greatest pleasures that only a true dog lover could appreciate and understand. Your dog’s unconditional love and loyalty are priceless, and help create that special bond between you both that is truly invincible. So the time invested in training your dog will not only help establish a great relationship built on trust, love, and respect; it will lay the groundwork for a happy, well-socialized dog for life. Whether you have a puppy or you adopted an older shelter dog, it’s important to start the training process as soon as possible. Properly training your dog in obedience and basic commands will help him learn what behavior is expected of him in different situations. The process will turn your dog into a great companion to have around for walks in the park, road trips, or family get-togethers.

Unruly children who don’t listen to their parents, throw temper tantrums, or misbehave are extremely unpleasant to be around; the same principle applies to dogs who have never been trained. No one wants to be around a dog that jumps on you, nips at you, or runs off when you call him. But it's not the dog’s fault if he hasn’t been trained—and not only is it bothersome, it can be dangerous as well. The American Dog highly recommends getting your dog involved in training classes. This is a lifelong commitment with terrific rewards for you both: your dog will be happier knowing his role and expectations, and so will you!

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 25

Dogs enjoying the pool at Beds N Biscuits Daycare. Photo by Shannon Worgan.

Doggie Daycares Do you have a busy schedule, work long hours, and hate to leave your dog home alone, or stuck in a crate with no bathroom break?

socializing with other dogs while learning proper social skills and making friends. The dogs have a great time and you have a happy, tired pooch when you pick him up!

Doggie daycares are a terrific place for dogs to have fun in a safe and structured environment. Dogs are generally placed in groups with like dogs that are the same temperament, size, and energy level. Dogs get plenty of exercise and enjoy

Having your dog spend an energetic day at daycare filled with exercise and attention can also alleviate destructive behavior at home due to boredom, separation anxiety, or lack of exercise and attention.

26 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

A Good Dog... Photo by Heather Green

Canine rivalry may occur when dogs have to share toys, food, or treats. They can wrestle for which dog gets to sleep on the “best” dog bed, or vie for who gets the most pats of affection from mom or dad. If you have multiple dogs at home, you probably have encountered the dominant dog pushing the subordinate pooch out from under the hand that is lavishing attention behind the ears or under the chin. Dogs are pack animals, and there is a chain of command within your pack. Hopefully, you are the pack leader and then the dogs decide who comes next in the canine hierarchy. Your dogs also establish their own system of sharing, and it’s not unusual for the top dog to chew on the favorite toy or bone first before surrendering the prize to a more submissive sibling. Even though we humans are taught to be fair and share our toys from an early age, you could be asking for trouble if you take a toy away from the dominant dog and give it to the secondary dog. This could create an aggressive situation and hurt the relationship between the dogs. Dogs love getting toys, especially brand new balls or stuffed animals, so get a few extra toys than there are dogs! You should always monitor their playtime and encourage sharing of toys, but if one dog becomes too territorial, then it's time to seek a professional dog trainer’s help. Also, dogs are social creatures, so make sure to set up play dates for your dog with his best friends and don’t forget to take your pooch shopping for a new toy!

28 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Will Share His Toys! The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 29

Walking the Dog! Photos by Heather Green

Walking is such a great activity with numerous health benefits for you, from lowering blood pressure to reducing body fat and controlling weight. It only makes sense your pooch would also benefit from improved physical and mental health too. Dogs are great personal trainers, and will get all wiggly and excited when they see you pick up the leash for their daily walk. Just like humans, dogs like a little variety, and enjoy traveling on different paths, following new scents, and spraying their signature mark on unexplored territory. Walking your dog can also be a wonderful adventure, affording ample opportunity for socializing with other dogs and meeting new people, as well as encountering dropped treats and pats on the head, and inhaling the enticing smells of cookies and girlie dogs. There’s nothing your dog would like better than to be included on a jaunt to an outdoor shopping experience, for instance in Aspen, where these pictures were taken. Here, you both can indulge in a leisurely stroll past art galleries and cafes, making pit stops at the outdoor fountains to cool off and get a drink of water for Fido—and a cup of coffee for you!

30 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 31

Dog Parks are

Great Opportunities for

Socializing!

Photo by Shannon Worgan

Dog parks can be a lot of fun for dogs that enjoy running off-leash without owners having to worry about the hazards of traffic or leash laws. Dogs can interact with members of their own species and become friends with a plethora of canine buddies who also want to sniff fannies and get acquainted. The majority of suburban and city dog owners whose dogs are never allowed off-leash can bring their fourlegged kids to a dog park where they are welcome to run wild, frolic, mingle, and socialize to their hearts' content. This is a wonderful opportunity for your dog to make friends and engage in a game of chase or fetch. Your dog also loves to play with you, his pack leader, so bringing a few tennis balls or sticks along for the outing would be superb in your dog’s

32 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

eyes. Many dog parents seize this occasion to get acquainted with other like-minded dog lovers, and there have even been friendships that developed into relationships from meeting at the dog park! There are a few words of caution before bringing your dog to your local dog park. Always make sure that there aren’t any aggressive dogs or bullies in the park before bringing your Fido in to have some fun. And don’t abandon your dog once inside; always keep your eye on your pooch to make sure he’s having fun and getting along with the other dogs. As you peruse the park, this is a perfect time to bond with your dog while enjoying a game of chase, tug-of-war, or counting how many bushes your dog peed on in a half hour!

Take your Dog

Shopping at the

Pet Boutiques!

When your dog sees you pick up the car keys and his leash, what dog doesn’t go into a tail-wagging, barking, spinin-circles frenzy at the thought of going for a ride to one of his favorite destinations—a pet boutique! For serious shopping hounds, going on a spree is one of the most gratifying and pleasurable experiences, so it stands to reason that your dog would enjoy tagging along for this social escapade involving possible toys and treats for him! While two-legged consumers revel in window-shopping the latest fashion, footwear and jewelry, your dog is also busy inspecting

34 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

every smell and staying on the lookout for other canines he can get chummy with. Shopping is more than a great way for your dog to interact socially with other dogs and new people; it can also be a great bonding experience between you, especially when you let your pooch pick out a new plaything or a cookie. Dogs get incredibly excited when they are allowed to choose a new toy or treat, and it’s a real blast to see the look of amazement on their faces when they find themselves surrounded by so much temptation.

Don’t Dump the Dog!

Expert Advice From Top Trainers

he pet overpopulation crisis in this country is at an all-time high. The collapsed economy and mega job losses are forcing families who can no longer afford to feed and take care of their pets to seek alternatives—and sadly, a toocommon "solution" is dumping these outcast canine kids at the local animal shelter in droves. In addition to the many dogs and cats being abandoned at the pound due to economic hardship, people are also discarding dogs at an alarming rate because of pet behavior problems. Shelter workers have heard it all, from dogs that have dug up the back yard, dogs that have destroyed a whole closet full of shoes, and dogs who continually go potty in the house, to dogs that won’t stop barking—add to that some owners' sudden

realization that they are allergic to dogs. The list of excuses for surrendering a dog goes on and on. In response to people treating their dogs as disposable property because of a common behavioral issue that could be solved with training, The American Dog contacted a few of the country's top trainers to get their expert advice on overcoming some of the more unruly behavior problems. Having a dog is a lifelong commitment and your pet should be considered a valuable, cherished family member that you will take care of for his entire life. And that should involve a commitment from you to training your dog, which will enable your best friend to live a healthy, happy, and harmonious life in your world!

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 37

Training

Planning, Prevention & Training: Committing to your dog for life!

By Doug & Elizabeth Simpson Owners of Tenderfoot Training www.tenderfoottraining.com

hy is it so difficult for people to keep their dogs? The dogs they had such high hopes for, the dogs for which they had visions of eternal friendship and unconditional love? These same dogs are taken to the shelter by the thousands each day in this country. According to www.petpopulation.org the top 10 reasons are as follows: 1. Moving 2. Landlord issues 3. Cost of pet maintenance 4. No time for pet 5. Inadequate facilities 6. Too many pets in home 7. Pet illness 8. Personal problems 9. Biting 10. No homes for littermates

38 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

People often use easy excuses to cover the real reasons for quitting on their dog. More often it comes down to how easy or difficult is the dog to live with? When times get tough people lose their commitment, and the dog goes. We had a client who re-homed their dog because they were moving to Vancouver—our question was, “Do they not allow dogs in Vancouver?” What upsets people the most when it comes to their dog’s behavior? • • • • • •

Soiling the house Barking Jumping on people Pulling on the leash Destruction of personal things Aggression to people or animals

These difficult problems can be solved with three simple words: planning, prevention and training. The first thing you must do when bringing a dog home is to make sure you are making the best choice for you, your family and the dog. The actual question is “are you really up for caring for a hairy, slobbery, needy, ball of energy?” Dogs are remarkable creatures, but they come with baggage. Just because your childhood memories of having a dog are wonderful doesn’t mean you remember things accurately since your parents probably took care of the dog most of the time. So give yourself a reality check—would a goldfish be easier? Next, make sure you bring home the right dog. Just because he has sweet eyes, a cuddly soft coat and a cold, wet nose doesn’t make him the right choice for you. How old should your new dog be? Puppies are adorable for about two days until they pee on your Persian rug and chew your favorite shoes. What size should your dog be? There is a huge difference between 15 pounds and 75 pounds when he’s flying at you to jump into your lap. How much care does the coat take? What is the personality of this dog? Mellow and laid-back or needing to be entertained 24/7? Can you afford vet and food bills? What does it cost to feed a 15-pound dog versus a 75-pound dog? Set yourself up for success by thinking these things through—do not just bring home the first dog you see unless he’s absolutely perfect for you. Dog-proof your house just as you would child-proof your house. Make sure there is nothing left out unless you’d be alright if the dog soiled it or used it as a chew toy. Be sure to give your dog lots of toys to keep him entertained because a busy brain doesn’t have time to get into trouble. Set up rules and expectations for everyone—dogs and people. We all do better with structure when we know what is expected of us and what the rules are. Where does the dog sleep? Where is the dog’s bed? Who feeds the dog and when? Who takes the dog out and where? What are your expectations of the dog’s manners? Is everyone on board to train and attend classes?

dog are clear on what to expect of each other. People teach or create good manners and most of the bad ones, as well. Take your dog to as many places as possible and socialize him with as many kinds of people, places and animals as you can—this is a lifelong commitment and vital to your dog’s well-being. Dogs are highly social creatures and anti-social behaviors can crop up very quickly if you don’t do your job. Crate training can save your dog and your belongings. Crates are a tool for learning, but do not replace good training, and should not be used to simply ignore your dog. The time spent in the crate is important—not too many hours at a time, but frequently enough for it to become a safe haven for your dog. A dog is a 10-15 year commitment that takes work, dedication, love, and patience. When a dog fails it is most often because the person did not set him up to win. It is the human’s job to create success, not failure, because when your dog learns good manners you both win. Let’s work together to keep your dog home for life.

A recipe for lifelong happiness together means how well does your dog listen to you? Which really means how well does your dog perform 20-30 things for you? If your dog listens to you or performs what you ask of him you will not have any problems. The reason he does what you ask should be out of relationship—a balance of love, trust and respect. People are great at love, not so good at the trust and respect, which must be earned throughout the life of your relationship together. A dog is a sponge and learns every moment, so take advantage of his ability to learn from the start. Find a great trainer and consult him or her before you even get your dog. Ask every question you can think of so you are ready for the challenges ahead. Attend classes right from the start so you and your

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 39

“I Can’t Keep the Dog Because I’m Allergic.” YES YOU CAN!

And Still Enjoy Living Life With a Dog! By Julia Szabo Author of Pretty Pet-Friendly

n allergy to animals does not automatically diagnose a dog-free life. According to the Humane Society of the United States, about 15 percent of the American population is allergic to dogs—yet many still choose to live with a dog. One brave veterinarian I know, Dr. Tony Miele of Brooklyn, is dog-allergic yet refuses to let a little thing like an allergy get in the way of his calling! For hardcore dog lovers, life without dogs is not an option. Happily, there are ways to make it easier for allergic people and dogs to stay together. . * Groom and bathe dogs once weekly at least, using an allnatural pet shampoo that contains no irritating chemicals. Remember, it's the dog's dander, not his hair, that triggers an allergic reaction—and dry, irritated skin produces more dander. Chemicals in most dog shampoos dry out K9 skin, but a moisturizing shampoo such as TheraNeem Pet Shampoo (www.organixsouth.com) is gentle enough to use every day. * While you're at it, try Neem beauty products on yourself, and check out Neem supplements; Neem oil is reputed to support the immune system, which helps an allergy sufferer cope. Some dog-allergic dog owners have also reported that boosting their daily dose of Vitamin C has helped them tame symptoms significantly. * Groom your home as diligently as you groom your dog. Dog lovers with allergies need to arm themselves with a highperformance Dyson vacuum cleaner (www.dyson.com)—and they'll need to deploy the machine often. Launder sheets, slipcovers, and curtains often, and avoid rugs and carpets, as these are magnets for irritating particles; bare floors are best because they're easiest to keep clean.

40 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

* Make the bedroom of the allergic person strictly off-limits to Spot, and install a HEPA (high effeciency particulate air) purifier to help keep the air clean around the sleeper. Change clothing that came in contact with the dog before entering the bedroom, so the allergens are not carried in, and dress your mattress with a Crypton Mattress Protector (www.cryptonfabric.com), which provides an impermeable hygienic barrier. * Consult a doctor about immunotherapy, i.e. allergy shots injected under the allergic person's skin. While these can't eliminate symptoms entirely, they can lessen the sufferer's woes. * Investigate homeopathic medicine, as it offers efficient, lessinvasive remedies for animal allergies. To locate a practitioner near you, visit www.homeopathic.org. Inquire about Nambudripad's Allergy Elimination Technique (NAET), the brainchild of Devi S. Nambudripad, MD; the web site is www.naet.com. One dog-allergic woman I know was afraid she could never have a dog - but thanks to NAET, she now lives happily with a Cavalier King Charles spaniel and works for a non-profit animal organization where she's constantly surrounded by K9s.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 41

Training

OVERCOMING THE OBJECTION: A Dog that Nips, Bites or Isn’t Friendly

By Brett Titus S.W.A.T / K-9 Handler & Trainer Denver Police Department

ne of the many considerations in becoming a dog owner is dealing with problems. Year after year, shelters are filled with thousands of unwanted dogs due to bad behavior. When the decision is made to add a dog to your family, know that there are several responsibilities attached. One of the most important of these responsibilities is training your dog. Every dog needs training. Without it, you’re asking for trouble. Most issues with dogs can be fixed with proper training. It's not so much the specific acts of sit, down and heel—what’s important is the time spent communicating with your dog. For

42 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

most dogs, basic disobedience goes away by simple training exercises. Positive reinforcement is a great way to train, but some dogs need more then that. Overly excited dogs—the jumpers, the pullers and nippers—need more of a negative consequence to fix their bad behavior. Without some sort of consequence, the dog will continue to display bad behavior. The lowest form of consequence is a commanding voice tone from you, the dog’s owner. A good verbal correction from the pack leader (you) may be all most dogs need. Depending on the dog and how pronounced a problem is, leash corrections and other training equipment may be

praise and petting, you know you’re in these drives.

needed. This is usually the case with the nippers and biters. Nipping can turn into biting if it goes uncorrected. There is a huge difference between a puppy that likes to nip and an adult dog nipping visitors. Puppies nip and bite when playing. This is a normal, natural act and does not mean there is a problem. With the proper training and time, they should grow out of it. When older dogs nip, it can be a result of numerous things, including excitement, fear or aggression. Whichever the case, it has to be addressed. First, go back to basics. Ask yourself, when is the last time you trained your dog? If we don't maintain training with our dogs, the good behavior can go away. Training is a lifelong aspect of dog ownership. Begin with simple sits and downs. I'm not one to use food motivation with older dogs; it can create dog tricks and not true communication and obedience, not to mention smelly hands. Once the food goes away, the good behavior goes away. I believe you get better results from tapping into the dog’s pack and play drives. Pack drive is the dog’s natural desire to please the pack leader; the pack leader verbally praises the dog for its good behavior. Play drive is similar by the verbal praise but it adds physical contact, a rub behind the ears or pat on the head. If the tail is wagging during

Once you've trained to a good solid sit and down, you’re ready to move on. Figure out when the nipping occurs. For example, when people come to your home. Then, set it up to train at those times. If there is more than one person in the household, it can make this easier. Whoever arrives home last should make a phone call when they are a few minutes away. Meanwhile, the person at home puts the dog on the leash for extra control. The arriving person should walk up and knock on the door to stimulate the dog. As the dog becomes unruly, the person inside should correct the dog by a good verbal command tone and then give a command to sit. Another important key to this exercise is to make the sit happen—you may pull up on the leash or gently push down on the rear end. This gives the dog something to focus on and distracts from who is at the door. Once the dog is calm, praise is given and the door is opened. Using people that don't live with the dog is optimal and they should be neutral to the dog upon entering the house. Keep the dog on the leash until he is calm and relaxed. For those that live alone, contact friends and family and ask them to call before they come by. If you do this enough, your dog will become bored with people coming over and the bad behavior may stop. If you believe the nipping may be caused by aggression, seek professional help. If it is an aggression issue, it should be handled differently then the aforementioned exercise. Despite the problem, it can likely be fixed. Take a good look at your life and make sure you have the time to dedicate to a dog. If you do make the decision to take in a dog, don't give up. They are worth every moment spent.

About the author Brett Titus is known Internationally for his training and handling skills. With over eleven years of professional experience training Police and S.W.A.T. K-9s, he has a vast background of accomplishments to his credit. Visit his Web site at: www.tacdogs.com.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 43

Training

Are YOU Dumping Your Dog because of YOUR Personal Problems? By Randy Grim Founder of Stray Rescue of St. Louis www.strayrescue.org

wrote Don’t Dump the Dog to make people think twice before dropping their “bad dog” off at the nearest animal shelter for “barking too much.” As the founder of Stray Rescue, a virtual dumping ground for “bad dogs,” I wanted to use humor and experience to entertain readers while teaching pet owners how to correct problem behavior and keep their four-legged family members (and themselves) from ending up behind bars. I’ve spent 15 years rescuing, taming, and socializing feral and aggressive street dogs only to have many of them returned by adoptive families for “bad” behavior. I’d spend a year tracking a feral dog on the streets, spend another year teaching her how to trust humans, and another year helping her accept and trust her new family. But then I’d get a letter or email saying she had to be returned because she licked the baby too much, or barked too much, or got in the garbage too much, and it broke my heart—and the dog’s—every time. Almost to a person, these dumpers said they weren’t interested in behavioral therapy or training for their pets. Then they’d spend an hour talking to me about their mean neighbors or their controlling spouses or their lazy children, and how it was their fault the dog had to be returned. I saw obvious and all-too-regular links between a person’s individual issues and the reasons they returned their dogs. One man, for instance, returned his dog because she was a “very dominant alpha female” who monopolized the bed at night and wouldn’t let him trim her nails. Days later, I received a visit from the man’s wife, whose tearful apology about her

44 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

husband’s controlling behavior ended with: “He treats the kids and me that way, too.” The wife blames the husband, who blames the dog. Somewhere in that trio, someone needs counseling. Short of suggesting my own therapist to the hard-core dumpers who plagued me—I tried that only once, and it didn’t go over too well—I saw no solution. Some people were simply too entertained by their own problems to waste any time on their pets. The trick, I figured, was to adopt an unorthodox spirit to teach pet owners what they needed to know about animal behavior. By focusing on human problems—including my own—I hoped I could spoon-feed common-sense solutions to readers by using humor, self-deprecation, and a very sharp pen. When, for instance, a woman complains that her dog escaped the yard and scared the neighbor’s children, whose parents now want her to get rid of the dog, I respond with an analysis of leaders versus followers, then wind into training the dog to stay in the yard, and end with the following brilliant conclusion: “… go get the big yellow phone book out of the hall closet, open it up to the “F” section and turn each page until you see the following sequence of letters: F-E-N-C-E.” It all comes down to this: If your dog gets in the garbage can, move the garbage can; if your dog is aggressive towards other dogs, don’t take him to the dog park; if your dog barks too much, get over it, because, guess what, dogs bark.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 45

Training

Housebreaking The Three Pillars of By Michael Wombacher www.doggonegood.org

46 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

“Doo doo occurs,” or so the sanitized saying goes. The fact is that it occurs so often that failure to housebreak a dog—puppy or adult—is one of the leading causes dogs are given up by frustrated owners. So let’s take a quick look at the basic outlines of a housebreaking program that can be adapted for both young pups and older dogs. Below I have summed up the essence of my program and what I call The Three Pillars of Housebreaking. They are: Confine, Supervise and Regulate. Being pillars, they are foundational to any housebreaking routine, so let’s examine them in turn. Confinement is key to any housebreaking program because dogs generally don’t like to eliminate in the immediate area where they’re hanging out. You can confine a pup in any number of ways—crates, ex-pens, patches of backyard, or blocking off certain areas of your house, such as a kitchen or hallway with baby gates. These are the most common approaches and they work nicely in tandem with one another, especially when it is not possible for you to supervise your pup. Which brings up the next topic—supervision. If your pup is not confined in a situation such as the one described above, he or she MUST be supervised. Now, supervision does not mean that you know your pup is “back there somewhere.” Supervision is active; it means you know where your pup is because you can see him or her. If you’re too busy for this, confine your pup. You should be aware that the overwhelming majority of all housebreaking problems revolve around failures in supervision. Now, you might ask yourself: “What’s the big deal about supervision? The pup may still go right in front of me?” That’s true, but if you see your pup eliminate you’re in a position to do something about it—that is, reprimand your pup. Yes, that’s right—reprimand. More on that in a minute. One very clever way in which you can both confine and supervise a dog at the same time without constantly crating or penning is to leash the dog to yourself in the house or tether him or her to nearby objects such as table legs and offer a bone or other chew toy to keep the pup busy. The fact is that your dog will be significantly less likely to pee or poop while on a leash with you. Moreover, you are likely to notice your dog getting antsy in the event that he or she does have to go and can then hold up your end of the deal by taking him or her out, ASAP. An additional bonus of this approach is that your dog will start to understand your leadership role as you lead them around, and you can easily supervise while being engaged in other activities. Let’s return to the subject of reprimands. Inevitably there are going to be times when your dog does the deed with you nearby. Because you are dutifully supervising your dog you are now in a position to do something about it—that is reprimand him. A couple of cautions with respect to reprimands: DO NOT

rub their nose in it, smack them with a rolled up newspaper or use any other well-meant and ill-guided tidbits of advice you’ve heard from your parents, in-laws or old-timers at the dog park. Never reprimand them after the fact, dragging them back to the scene of the crime even 30 seconds later teaches them exactly nothing—other than that you are unpredictable and possibly crazy. So how should you reprimand your pup? By clapping your hands loudly, stamping your foot on the floor, and in a strong tone – not an angry one, but one filled with urgency—commanding “ah, ah, ah—no, no, no.” The idea is to startle and interrupt the pup, then bring him or her outside as quickly as possible, and encourage him or her to finish there, at which point you deliver a treat. Lastly, with respect to reprimands, please don’t be taken in by training tips that suggest you ignore your dog when he or she is pooping in the house because reprimanding them will make them afraid to go in front of you. Appropriately reprimanding them teaches your dog where they crossed a line and helps them distinguish right from wrong. The third pillar—regulate—simply refers to establishing a predictable routine, that is, regular meal times and regular elimination times. The more predictable, the more your dog will come to expect it and also become predictable. So there you have it—the outlines of a solid housebreaking program. If you find yourself having trouble with housebreaking there is a 98 percent chance that your problem can be found in one of these areas, mostly likely in lack of supervision. That being said, there can be many subtle nuances and problems in housebreaking. Therefore, if you’d like more information, please feel free to visit my Web site, www.doggonegood.org and click on the housebreaking tab. My entire chapter on the subject from my book There’s a Puppy in the House is posted there and includes a ton of helpful tips, such as getting your pup to go potty on command and much more.

About the Author: Michael Wombacher has more than 20 years of professional training experience and his training approach focuses on channeling a dog’s natural drives and instincts into behaviors acceptable in the human pack, primarily through the principles of positive reinforcement, as well as through methods that appeal to the dog’s canine sensibilities. Visit www.doggonegood.org or email mike@doggonegood.org for more information.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 47

Training

Remedies to Cure Dogs that Destroy the House!

By Doug & Elizabeth Simpson Owners of Tenderfoot Training

ne of the top reasons people become frustrated with their dogs is the level of destruction they achieve just by being dogs. Damage—like digging up the garden; chewing shoes, remote controls, and furniture; and scratching walls—can quickly send a dog to the shelter. Why do dogs do these terrible things to our wonderful stuff? It is very simple: shoes smell like you and are entertaining to chew, dirt is pleasurable to dig, and furniture is made of wood and cloth, which are naturally fun to chew. Basically

48 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

your home is one big playground with tons of exciting stuff to obliterate for a dog with energy to burn. When dealing with bad behaviors you have two answers. The first is to manage the problem while you are teaching, keep your dog and your things safe by crate training your dog, or confine him to a small area like the kitchen or an exercise pen, or send the little fellow to daycare instead of leaving him alone. These are strategies to manage your dog, but they don’t teach him not to destroy your things.

The second answer is to engage your dog’s mind and body with more activities. Dogs quickly get bored in our quiet and predictable homes, and a bored dog can mean trouble—while a busy dog doesn’t have time to get into mischief. The larger your dog’s vocabulary, the greater his ability to perform for you and the more opportunities you have to occupy his mind. The tasks don’t have to be enormous, you just have to do them. And, of course, the more fun it is for both of you, the better. Most people are content with the five basic commands and think they are doing well to get those accomplished. Come, sit, down, stay and heel seem to be a person’s limit for communicating with their dog; in fact, every action your dog can perform should have a word and hand signal of association. Each toy in his toy box can have a name, all of the rooms in the house can have a name, even the car’s different spaces can have names: car, ride shot-gun and backseat. Your dog can easily know 20-30 words in the next few weeks, the only limits are in your own imagination. It’s fine to have a big vocabulary, but you must use it. Don’t think of it as doing 15 minutes of obedience a day, it is about engaging your dog throughout the day. It is a constant reminder to your dog that you are the leader/teacher and he is the follower/student. When your dog listens to you and does as you ask, most problems will disappear naturally. Lay out some toys on the floor along with some of your socks, shoes, and remotes and teach him what is his and what is not. Start with the dog on a loose leash and walk toward the objects; if he starts to put his nose toward a forbidden item, stop him with the leash, and say ‘leave it’ in a firm, abrupt

tone. Go back to a loose leash instantly, but be ready to stop him again. Repeat this with each forbidden object, but when he approaches a dog toy then reward him with praise and enthusiasm, and say ‘good toy’ in a warm, friendly tone. You are teaching your dog to think about his choices and if he respects your wishes he will not mess with your stuff. Dogs are hard-wired to challenge you, so be ready for him to test you. If you are clear and consistent he will only challenge you three to five times, then he will comply and do as you ask. Some of the destructive behaviors that bother people most are things like scratching the door or pushing through a screen door. This is because your dog wants to go out and he is either telling you that he needs to go out by scratching, or he is letting himself out. This is self-rewarding behavior that he has learned works, and dogs always do what works. You need to teach him a better alternative by teaching him to ring a bell or come place his paw on your foot to communicate his needs—simple tricks that get your attention so he can go out when he needs to without demolishing your door. You also need to teach him that the space around the door belongs to you and is not his to scratch or push through. Put him on the leash (make sure it is loose) and walk to the door; stop him about three feet from the door and give it a word like ‘back’ (meaning stay back); when he stops make the leash loose again. A dog will typically sit down automatically and look up at you—praise him warmly. Repeat this a few times until he stops with just a word and not the leash. Then, when you see him heading for the door, you should be able to say ‘back’ from anywhere in the room and he should respect that space in front of the door and not go there. You have claimed your territory, and now it is his job to look at you and ask if he can go to the door or through it. Creating structure and stimulation for your dog answers a multitude of problems, but you have to put in the time and effort to get the benefits. If your dog’s behavior is frustrating, don’t give up—simply get help and get on a better path.

About the Trainers: Doug and Elizabeth Simpson have worked with animals all of their lives and are thrilled to share their knowledge and understanding of dogs with their people. With 30 years of experience their methods are tried and true. They attribute this to good socialization, fair and consistent training and lots of love. Tenderfoot Training Doug & Elizabeth Simpson www.tenderfoottraining.com (303) 444-7780

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 49

Will you commit to be there ... “for better or worse, in sickness and health, to love and cherish, till death us do part”? Your dog depends on you his whole life. Show your commitment to your best friend with a beautiful “COMMIT” charm.

Proudly presented by The American Dog Magazine A portion of all proceeds will be donated to non-profits that support puppy mill rescues.

ORDER A CHARM FOR YOU AND YOUR BEST FRIEND! $19.95 for one charm or $30.00 for two plus $2.00 shipping Order online at www.theamericandogmag.com and click on “commit charm” or mail your check (include shipping) payable to: The Dog Publishing 20269 E. Smoky Hill Rd #B-136 Centennial, CO 80015 Allow 2 - 3 weeks for shipping Made of high-quality stainless steel with clear epoxy shiny finish. Actual size is 1-1/8” diameter

name: address: city/state/zip: phone:

email: order

(303) 840-6111

charm(s) + $2.00 shipping = total $

www.theamericandogmag.com

Are you in a Successful, Committed Relationship with your Dog?

marriage between two people should be a lifetime commitment, just as adopting a dog into your family should also be considered a lifelong relationship. Yet too many people entering into a marriage lack commitment, and if problems arise they just walk out and get a divorce. These people lack the tenacity and perseverance to stick it out through the tough times, and find it easier to trade that spouse in for a newer model, just like a used car. Instead of making a determined effort to work through the issues and solidify that commitment to one another for life, many people give up. They haven’t learned what it takes to be in a successful, committed, satisfying relationship. Maia Madden just wrote the book, Treat Your Man Like a Dog…and Live Happily Ever After, and she talks about how women are so attentive to their dogs, but can often be nasty and dismissive to their partners. The author muses, “Wouldn’t

we all be a lot happier if we could treat our mates as well as we treat our dogs?” It’s a great book, by the way, and The American Dog wants to encourage all dog parents to treat dogs like family members. Make a commitment to your dog for life, even if he destroys your sofa or chews your favorite pair of shoes. Yes, you need to hire a dog trainer and teach your dog some manners. The effort will be well worth it, because of the priceless feeling of euphoria that engulfs you from the unconditional love and adoration expressed by your dog every day. To see your dog get so incredibly excited, tail wagging 100 miles per hour, when you walk through the door is sheer joy. It’s pure happiness to snuggle up together on the couch and watch a movie while your best friend drifts off to sleep and starts snoring. When you have that bond of trust, respect and love, and you put your dog on the pedestal he deserves, then you have a great relationship!

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 53

COMMITMENT

MUCH LOVE ANIMAL RESCUE Spread the Love!

Photos by Stacy Bodell

Much Love Animal Rescue is a non-profit, no-kill rescue organization founded in 2000. Since then, we’ve placed over two thousand dogs and cats in loving homes in the Los Angeles area.

Volunteer. If you’re in L.A., come help out at weekend

What we do:

kibble until they find their forever homes.

• Rescue homeless dogs and cats from local shelters

Spread the love! Support your local animal shelter. Spay

• Spay or neuter and microchip every animal in our care • Provide medical treatment and training • H old mobile adoptions every weekend in Venice and Santa Monica • S creen applicants and perform home checks for every potential adoption

adoptions. If you don’t, we always need help with fundraising, publicity, maintaining our website, and planning events.

Donate. Even a small donation helps keep our animals in

and neuter your pets. Encourage friends and family to adopt, not shop.

Please visit Much Love on the web at www.muchlove.org to learn more about us, see pictures of the cute critters in our care, read our success stories, and get your very own Much Love T-shirt, tote bag, or exclusive gourmet blend coffee!

• E ncourage potential pet owners to adopt instead of buying animals from pet stores

How we do it: Volunteer power! Much Love relies on the hard work and dedication of our volunteers to raise funds, care for, and find homes for our animals.

How you can help:

For more information:

Sponsor. Be a guardian angel to that special dog or cat who needs your support.

Much Love Animal Rescue P.O. Box 341721 Los Angeles, CA 90034-1721 (310) 636-9115 www.muchlove.org

Foster. If you live in the Los Angeles area, you can provide a temporary home for one of our adorable animals.

54 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Seriously, who could resist a face like this?

A happy dog is an

adopted dog

Make yourself and a homeless animal feel good today. Donate, volunteer and save lives.

itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cool to drool @ muchlove muchlove.org .org

COMMITMENT

LISA DULYEA Marketing Manager for Best Friends Animal Society

Photo by Elle Whittelsbach.

The American Dog reports

fter visiting Best Friends Animal Society in 2006, Lisa knew she wanted to use her skills and experience to contribute to animal welfare and joined the Best Friends team two years ago as their Marketing Manager. She feels really blessed to be able to make a living while contributing to something she's passionate about, and her passion would also include her two Greyhounds, Apollo and Georgia. She told us, "After losing my dog, Sydney, and reading about the horrific plight of racing Greyhounds and their sweet, calm nature, I decided that a rescued racer would be a great fit for my home and lifestyle. I looked on Petfinder.com and found Apollo and Georgia. Both were straight off the Tucson track and had never been in a home." Lisa had to teach them about sliding glass doors, how to walk on a leash, and that nothing bad was going to happen to them any

56 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

more. And although most track dogs have very little positive human contact she said both dogs have adjusted beautifully and are very happy to be retired! Since Greyhounds have a high prey drive, their favorite toys are anything that squeaks and has fur. Greyhounds are also labeled couch potatoes and both Apollo and Georgia love snoozing on Lisa's bed or any soft, fluffy spot they can find. These two dogs live the life of leisure now and also enjoy going on walks twice a day while Lisa spoils them with visits to grandma's house, where they have the opportunity to run full speed in the backyard and play with their canine friends Andy and Carly. Lisa couldn't imagine her world without these two gregarious Greyhounds. "They both bring so much joy into my life," she says. "Georgia is a little firecracker with a huge personality and Apollo is incredibly sweet and such a clown, but both are very affectionate, smart and amazing communicators."

JULIA

SZABO

COMMITMENT

The American Dog reports

lifetime of rescuing pit bulls can wind up being a small drop in a giant bucket: for every dog you bring to safety, thousands more are left behind. Still, New York Post "Pets" columnist Julia Szabo remains committed to pit rescue. "I love these dogs," she says. "I must have been a pit bull in a past life." Her most recent success story is a handsome buckskin boy, brought as a stray to the animal shelter in Sulphur Springs, Texas, over a year ago. When Julia heard that "Shorty" faced death in a gas chamber, she arranged for him to be pulled and transported to Dallas/Fort Worth Airport, where Midwest Airlines flew the petite pit with the double-wide head to New York City. "Lazarus got his biblical name because he was raised twice," Julia explains. "First he cheated death, then he rose again on a Midwest plane!" Julia has found new homes for many pit bulls, but Lazarus wound up being a keeper. "He's not crazy about other dogs, yet he treats my other dogs—and cats too—with respect. He genuinely wants to please me." One night, Julia was walking Laz later than usual; it was around 2 a.m. and the two were accosted by "an unpleasant man," she recalls. It was this

Author, Columnist, Animal Advocate Photo by Jeanine Boubli.

encounter that would ultimately seal lucky Laz's fate. "The guy boasted that he could make my dog bite me," she says. "A lot of dogs—especially males—do pay better attention to a man than to a woman, so I started walking faster. The guy kept following us; he tried hard to get my dog's attention, using his most authoritative, alpha-male tone of voice. I'll never forget how Laz stayed by my side the entire time, looking to me for direction. This dog showed me that he was as committed to me as I was to him. His permanent home is here with me."

For more information on Julia Szabo visit: www.pet-reporter.com www.animalhousestyle.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 59

COMMITMENT

Doctor Slaton— to the Rescue! By Carole Raphaelle Davis Photo by Elle Wittelsbach

mong local animal rescuers in the Los Angeles area, Doctor Daniel Slaton of Westlake Village Animal Hospital has a reputation. “Take him to Doctor Slaton,” they say. “He’s rescue-friendly and he’ll fix him up.” Too many animals are surrendered to shelters because of medical problems and sadly, those who need medical attention have little chance of being adopted. Few people want to start off a relationship with a new pet who needs to go directly to the hospital. Dr. Slaton, who graduated from Ross veterinary school in St. Kitts in 2003, wanted to build a reputation by helping out with rescue groups. He helps small rescue organizations that pull animals from the shelters’ kill list by offering a reduced rate. Dr. Slaton has a rescued dog of his own, a little Chihuahua who had been attacked by another dog. “She was brought in by a local rescue. She had broken ribs and a large abscess and I fixed her up,” said Dr. Slaton, continuing, “I’m not a big Chi fan but I sort of fell in love with her. I named her Beanz, like a little coffee bean.” He also has an English Mastiff he named Disco, acquired eleven years ago from a breeder. “That was

60 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

before I realized how many unwanted dogs were available,” he said. Asked if there is a particular medical rescue case that stands out in his mind, he told me about a five month-old puppy—a Chihuahua mix that was an abuse case. The dog was paraparetic which means he couldn’t use his rear legs. “I was asked if I could do spinal surgery because he had a fractured spine—a vertebral fracture,” said Dr. Slaton. “It was his only chance.” Thanks to Doctor Slaton, that little dog got his chance—he’s in recovery now and is beginning to walk. Soon, he will be ready for adoption into a loving home.

Dr. Slaton can be contacted at: Westlake Village Animal Hospital 2806 Townsgate Rd. #C Westlake Village, CA 91361 (805) 497-4900 www.westlakevet.com

COMMITMENT

CAROLE SAX

Photo by Carole Raphaelle Davis

Real Estate Agent

By Carole Raphaelle Davis

arole Sax might work in high-end residential real estate but the properties that motivate her the most are commercial. They’re the ones she wants to close down: pet stores that sell pet factory animals. Carole Sax, Los Angeles campaign coordinator for the Companion Animal Protection Society, is one of the leading organizers of the anti-puppy mill movement, recruiting and guiding fledgling groups nation-wide on how to stop pet stores from benefitting from animal cruelty. Carole, the daughter of a veterinarian, is a walking and driving billboard. She takes her pack of four rescued pound dogs everywhere she goes as an educational tool to drive home the importance of spay/ neuter and adoption. She has real Beverly Hills style: the inside of her Jaguar is full of dog beds and the outside is covered in bumper stickers that say, “Pet Stores Sell Misery!” She takes her pro-adoption philosophy very seriously, always taking the time to educate anyone who will listen about the tragic pet overpopulation crisis that is killing 5 million per year in our shelters. “If they won’t listen, then they can read,” she says. Her favorite wardrobe item is a homemade T-shirt that states, “If you didn’t rescue your dog, you’re a jerk!” Carole has balls. In fact, she chases them. She’s known for chasing irresponsible pet guardians who have intact males down the street, yelling, “Neuter your dog! It’s the law!” But it’s her welcoming smile and genuine friendliness that keeps the anti-puppy mill movement on track inLos Angeles!

Photo by Elle Wittlesbach.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 63

COMMITMENT

NEW LEASH ON LIFE “To save the lives of homeless animals and make a difference in the lives of people.”

By Kelly Dorafshar

ew Leash On Life (NLOL) is a non-profit organization that not only saves the lives of homeless animals, but also makes a difference in the lives of people. As an animal rescue, NLOL’s primary focus is rescuing dogs from local shelters and placing them in loving homes. However, if that were all the rescuers did, then their work would never be done. Recognizing that the pet overpopulation problem is increasing rather than decreasing in a country experiencing an economic crisis, NLOL has taken steps to be a pioneer in the rescue community by focusing on a no-kill future.

(ABOVE LEFT) “Courage” is available for adoption. (ABOVE RIGHT) “Maggie” has found a forever family. (LOWER PHOTOS) Bobby Dorafshar and volunteers scouting for dogs in New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Photos by Jennifer Zivolich Emery.

Through all of this work, NLOL still wanted to address the problem at its source: the fact that most dogs end up at the shelter due to behavioral issues. To change the mindset that mutts and shelter dogs are “not good enough,” NLOL created a way for rescued, rehabilitated, and rehomed dogs to become rescuers themselves. NLOL’s Lend A Paw is a Pet Therapy Program that rescues, rehabilitates, trains, and certifies dogs to provide therapy and hope to individuals in nursing homes, hospitals, hospices, and other care facilities.

Since 1997, NLOL has been responsible for spaying and neutering thousands of pets; rescuing, rehabilitating, and placing over 5,000 dogs; providing free educational seminars at local shelters; and setting shelter rescue priorities on “hard to place” animals requiring medical or special care. NLOL’s Emergency Search and Rescue Team has been a leading factor in the Hurricane Katrina and Rita rescue efforts and the California wildfires. With expertise and dedication, NLOL was able to rescue, relocate, reunite, and place hundreds of animals, while also harboring local families whose homes were caught in the fires.

To volunteer or for more information:

Realizing that our future relies on the next generation, NLOL founded the P.E.T.s (Pet Educational Trainers) Program, which provides educational seminars to children in local schools. The children are educated on humane care for animals, safe interaction with animals, and the importance of spaying and neutering.

New Leash On Life 16742 Placerita Canyon Road Newhall, CA 91321 (661) 255-0097 www.newleash.org info@newleash.org

64 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

This is only the beginning of what NLOL can do. With a spirit of hope and a backbone of dedicated volunteers, we are committed to continue these efforts until we reach our goal of a no-kill nation. The only way we can move forward is with your help and support.

COMMITMENT

SETH CASTEEL Fine Art Pet Photographer

By Julia Szabo

ometimes, a picture does a lot more than tell a thousand words—it can actually save a life. That's what Los Angelesbased photographer Seth Casteel discovered when he decided to volunteer his time at his local animal shelter. The professional lensman logs many hours each week photographing adoptable dogs and cats, "to give them a better chance of finding forever homes," he says. "I capture moments that showcase unique personalities—the reason why we are so drawn to them. The photographs are displayed on the city web site as well as other web sites, flyers, and marketing materials. The photos generate interest in specific pets and bring increased traffic to the shelters. It truly is a picture that can save a life." When he's not shooting, Seth helps out with special marketing projects and teaches photography tutorials on how to successfully capture shelter pets. It sounds like a lot of work, but for Seth, it's a career high—and volunteering on behalf of homeless animals is something he highly recommends to everyone he meets, whether or not photography is their forte. "I'm so thankful I was introduced to the opportunity to volunteer at my local shelter," he says. "There are so many different ways to be involved—from walking dogs so they get proper exercise, to bottle-feeding puppies and kittens, to participating in adoption events." His own dogs are a source of constant inspiration: Madison is a 4-year-old Finnish Spitz from the West LA Shelter, and Nala is a 3-year-old Cockadoodle-doo from the Orange County Shelter. "My dogs somehow manage to remind me every single day what is important in life," he says. "They are my heroes. They were tossed out in the cold and abandoned, but were willing to give life and human beings a second chance. They don't hold grudges and they look at every single day as a new adventure."

66 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Seth's volunteer work didn't merely bring great personal rewards; it actually crystallized his professional focus, which in turn enriched his professional life. "I've been a photographer for over 10 years," he explains, "and I absolutely love it. It's my passion. But my priorities changed since volunteering; I've become an even happier person. It gives me great pride to help animals in need. And I've started a new career because of it—I own a pet lifestyle photography business where I work with private clients, companies in the pet industry, and dozens of magazines, calendars, and books. It's a dream job and I'm thankful for every day I get to do this! Please check out LittleFriendsPhoto.com for more info on my upcoming national photography tour; I'm looking forward to working with people and pets all around the country!"

For more information visit: www.littlefriendsphoto.com

Needs a Friend When I heard the news that the Obamas didn’t adopt, I was devastated. Given all I’d done to ensure the opposite outcome, it was unbearable. By Jana Kohl, Psy.D. Author of A Rare Breed of Love www.ararebreedoflove.com

I had adopted a puppy mill survivor who spent years in a cage, was used as a breeding machine, had her vocal cords cut, her leg amputated, and became the subject of: A Rare Breed of Love: The true story of Baby and the mission she inspired to help dogs everywhere, featuring then-Senator Obama. When he was still a State Senator, I met with him to discuss these houses of horror, the killing of millions of homeless pets, and adoption as the means to end this abomination. After his U.S. Senate victory, he signed on to our book, even sending an email to his constituents, saying this cruelty must end. As he held Baby in his arms for the photo, I was filled with hope. As Senator, or if he became President (a prediction I made when I met him), for the first time we’d have a chance to stop this legalized torture—and if his family adopted, it would inspire Americans to rescue millions of homeless pets. I nearly wept with relief thinking than an end to their suffering might be near. Two years later, during the presidential race, when the Obamas stated their intent to adopt, advocates were thrilled! By agreeing to fulfill this simple yet far-reaching act of compassion, the Obamas could help end the abuse of millions of animals. It…was…HUGE. As we crossed the country, the photo of him and Baby on the side of our bus, we met many Americans who said they’d been on the fence, whether to vote for Hillary or Barack, but after seeing him in the book and hearing his intent to adopt, he had their vote. After he won, rescue groups sent countless profiles of adorable hypoallergenic dogs to the Obamas and their staffers. No response. Dread filled me, but I told myself he couldn’t possibly buy or be gifted a dog after being featured in our book, after publicly stating his intent to adopt. It was unthinkable when so much was at stake for those suffering dogs. But when Bo was trotted out, a $2500 gift from Sen. Kennedy, our worst fears came true. It was bad enough the Vice President bought a dog from a large commercial breeder, one cited for violations. Now the only person who could help these poor creatures turned his back on them. Obama could have changed the

68 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

world from the bottom up. As Gandhi said, our treatment of animals—the lowest on the totem pole, the most powerless— is a measure of a nation’s moral progress. “Man’s best friend” is hardly recognizable in a puppy mill: matted with feces and urine, cage-crazy from lifetime confinement, maimed and diseased yet still forced to breed. And what of the millions in shelters, desperate for a home, shaking with fear as they await their lethal injection? One of those dogs could have gone home with the Obamas. One of those dogs could have provided their daughters with the meaningful experience of giving a loving home to a pet who otherwise would be killed; a life lesson in compassion and mercy that builds character for children and parents alike. A few days later, I got an email from the head of a rescue group that made me cry. She summed up what I’d been grieving. “If the Obamas had adopted, it would have inspired millions of Americans to follow their humane example. The shelters would have been emptied out in a year, puppy mills would have closed, and taxpayers would have saved billions—the cost of pet overpopulation.” I wept for how close we’d come to helping millions whose fate will continue to be hell on earth. A coalition of animal groups has begun a letter-writing campaign, asking the Obamas to adopt a playmate for Bo. Letters will be bound into a book for them. Your own letter can be part of this effort, one that speaks for those who can’t. The President has spoken of the importance of empathy in other matters. We must remind him that empathy cannot be selective; it must be inclusive of all Americans, especially those who have no voice.

Letters should be mailed to: Bo Needs a Friend 8918 W. Pico Blvd. #7 L.A., CA 90035 www.BoNeedsaFriend.com

70 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

PETS, LIES

& LEGISLATION By Carole Raphaelle Davis

their bodies give out. Then, they’re killed or sold at auction. Mill breeding dogs live and die unprotected, are used like machine parts in cruel conditions with insufficient or no oversight. These dogs are often injured, wounded and sick. They’re exposed to extreme temperatures. Dealers often sell the puppies of these dogs directly to the public via the Internet, benefiting from a giant loophole: they’re not regulated—yet. The cruelty dogs endure routinely in breeding operations is unacceptable. Puppy millers must be regulated. To relieve the agony of dogs in factory farming, new protective measures must be imposed and existing laws to protect them must be enforced. The pet trade industry can’t be trusted to self- regulate, nor can we rely on government agencies (like the USDA) to ensure humane treatment or to enforce the minimum standards of care under the Animal Welfare Act. Americans are demanding action.

Puppy mills are a hot political issue. Public outrage is growing over the legal multi-billion dollar puppyproducing business that forces millions of breeding dogs to endure inhumane treatment in factory-like conditions until death. They’re kept 24/7 in wire cages caked with their own feces, with no veterinary care or socialization. Average dog lovers want puppy mills to become illegal. Consequently, a war about dogs is escalating in America— a battle as complex as any fought in the history of social movements and waged with a proportionate scale of strategists, lobbyists, and commanders vying for control, power, and money. Powerful animal enterprises like the pet breeding industry, animal agriculture, the AKC (American Kennel Club), the NRA, the pharmaceutical research industry, zoos, exotic pet dealers and hunting clubs have banded together and are holding their ground against the animal rights movement. The animal protection movement, divided, yet emboldened with millions of members, savvy lawyers and deep pockets, pushes back hard and from every point on the war map, there are principles that impassioned combatants feel entitled to fight for. In this mire of blood and money, there is mudslinging from both sides. There is infighting. There is greed. There are heroes. There are liars and thugs posing as heroes. There are geniuses and morons—zealots and moderates. There is chaos and this battle is a complicated and bloody mess. Neither side will give up and both sides fear the struggle will outlive us all. If you reduce it to its most simple elements, what you have are two compelling and contradictory points of view:

) Animal protection position: There’s a pet 1 overpopulation crisis and five million pets are being killed in “shelters” every year because there aren’t enough homes for them. Meanwhile, the commercial breeding industry exacerbates this tragedy by churning out millions of surplus dogs for profit. Dogs in puppy mills are bred until

Photo by Christopher W. Johnson

) Animal enterprise position: Radical extremists, AR 2 (animal rights) fanatics, are a dangerous fringe group attempting to make pets extinct and pet ownership obsolete. They are domestic terrorists who use violence and intimidation. These militants are anti-business and antiscience, and they are intruding in an unconstitutional way on privacy by attacking the rights of individuals, animal enterprises, and small businesses. They want to ensure that the government can tell you how many dogs you can own, sell, or breed and want to be able to come on to your property to inspect your adherence to their unfair laws. They want to use big government to enforce the sterilization of your personal property—your dog. There is no pet overpopulation crisis; it’s a myth. The AR lobby is guilty of greed and deceit, and will force legislation that will terminate our individual rights and freedom. The AR movement does little to help animals; it actually kills them. All they do is collect money. Our rights are in peril. Our purebred dogs are facing extinction.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 71

Photo courtesy of petshoppuppies.org.

Dale Bartlett, Deputy Manager for public policy in the puppy mill campaign for the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), told me that so far, this session, 63 puppy mill bills have been introduced in 32 states. Of those, six have passed, “establishing inspection or licensing programs for high volume puppy producers,” Bartlett says. State bills include protective measures that restrict abuse, implement minimum standards of care, mandate exercise, inspections, seizure for non-compliance and in some cases, mandate sterilization. Michael Markarian, Executive Vice President of the HSUS, believes mainstream America is veering toward better treatment for animals, asserting that, “in 2008, there were 93 new animal protection laws passed in the states, and in 2009, only halfway through the year, we’ve already passed 96 state laws to protect animals.” Some bills, called “cap bills,” limit the number of unaltered dogs a breeder is allowed to have, targeting mass volume puppy producers as opposed to small or “hobby” breeders. In 2008, Louisiana put a cap at seventy-five, and in Virginia, a cap of 50 was imposed. Oregon and Washington were also capped at 50 dogs in 2009. Dale Bartlett said that bills pending currently would implement caps of 50 in California and 25 in Massachusetts.

72 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Commercial breeding operations typically exploit hundreds of dogs (some have a thousand), so limiting the number of dogs in breeding operations might ultimately reduce the number of dogs being abused. Arguably, it’s easier to care for 50 dogs than for 500. As a national strategy, forcing high volume breeders to adhere to these numbers is ingeniously effective by making the mass volume dog dealing business a lot less lucrative, crippling the worst in the industry. It’s a cunning “divide and conquer” plan because if the intent is successful across the U.S., it could actually help smaller breeders if they market themselves as “ethical breeders.” This “cap tactic,” by cutting into profits, obviously infuriates large animal enterprises. I spoke with Patti Strand, the national director of NAIA (National Animal Interest Alliance), a group of breeders, research scientists, cattle ranchers, hunters, egg producers, and others who are “dedicated to responsible animal use.” She’s also a board member of the AKC (American Kennel Club) and known in the industry for being “the real warrior” on this issue. “Any person who would protect someone who’s breeding dogs in inhumane conditions should be ashamed,” Strand says. “On the other hand, to eliminate someone who has a certain arbitrary number of dogs simply because of the number of dogs when they are well treated, well socialized, and responsibly placed, is shameful too.” To puppy mill investigators, the idea that commercial breeders

To puppy mill investigators, the idea that commercial breeders are treating their dogs well or socializing them is laughable. A miller’s idea of playtime is to throw a bunch of females in heat with a male in one cage.

I asked Strand, “When is a breeding operation too big? Five hundred? A thousand? How can you treat a thousand dogs well? ” Unwilling to discuss ratios of employees to dogs, she answered, “They have staff.” Andrew Rosenthal, who owns L.A. Dogworks, a dog day care center in Los Angeles, told me he employs one staff member for every ten dogs. That’s what it takes, he says, to keep them “safe and happy.” But the typical mill has hundreds of miserable dogs in cages and one guy with a hose. I’ve seen it during an investigation—I’ll never forget it—one toothless guy, diddling in the shade, ignoring 450 whimpering dogs in cages. The dogs were roasting in the sun without access to shade. It was over a hundred degrees and I saw dogs with wounds, dogs with eyes crusted shut, and dogs with their inner organs coming out of their genital area from having had so many litters. One dog had been stitched up with rope. In her earnest effort to protect animal enterprises, Strand seems willfully blind to similar evidence from undercover footage of mills all over the U.S.—evidence demonstrating that cruelty is the norm, not the exception. “Whenever there’s a bad kennel bust, we always pray it’s not one of ours,” Strand says. “Absurd laws are being passed all over the country for the purpose of fundraising,” Strand adds. “The HSUS has millions backing these bills and the public doesn’t realize that the HSUS is not a humane society but a giant fundraising machine… We’d rather do things for animals than having to fight these

lunatics… They’re operating with dishonest means full time!” said Strand. “That’s a broad allegation,” retorts HSUS’ Michael Markarian. “Unlike NAIA, the HSUS does have actual animal protection programs. We do disaster relief for animals, we provide vet care for animals, we run five of our own animal sanctuaries and we work with law enforcement to stop dogfights, puppy mills, and other large-scale cruelties. In 2008, we directly handled or cared for more than 70,000 animals.” Strand does make the valid objection to “cap legislation” that you can mistreat five dogs in a small kennel and treat 51 dogs well, so penalizing a “good breeder” who owns 51 dogs doesn’t help dogs being abused in a 49-dog operation. The war between animal enterprises and animal welfare is becoming increasingly vitriolic. Strand attempts to clear up an alleged mix-up on who the good guys and bad guys are. “The good news is that the bad guys have gotten so blatantly bad that the general public is beginning to recognize [HSUS] for who they are and not being confused about thinking that they’re a humane society.” Markarian disagrees. He thinks the bad guys are abusing dogs and the HSUS is going after them. “The NAIA was the main opponent to the new law that passed in Patti’s home state of Oregon—a law to restrict abusive mills that requires exercise and a cap of 50,” said Michael. “They want no limits on what people can do to these animals. They are not winning the hearts and minds of people who care about animals. It’s a very modest advance and the NAIA is its main opponent. “ Bill Hemby runs PETPAC (Protecting the Rights of Pets and Owners), a lobbying organization that he claims has 65,000 members. “We’re fighting for our lives,” Hemby told me. “This is a national fight. There is a concerted effort to eliminate our pets!” He believes that “AR wackos, if they’re successful, will mean the end of pet ownership.” Of the bills, he states, “fiftydog caps are just subterfuges. The real aim is to criminalize selling dogs and establishing a cap on dog ownership.” Yet, this man, who shares his bed with Borzois (including two rescued Borzois) had the uprightness to admit that anyone “with an excess of one hundred or two hundred dogs would have a difficult time keeping that number of animals.” He agreed, “Fifty is a good number.”

Photo by Christopher W. Johnson.

are treating their dogs well or socializing them is laughable. A miller’s idea of playtime is to throw a bunch of females in heat with a male in one cage. As for being responsibly placed, mass volume breeders use brokers to ship barely weaned (and often sick) pups indiscriminately to pet retailers around the country. The dogs are crated in trucks for thousands of miles at an age when they need food and water every two hours. They are also sent in crates to buyers across the country on long flights with layovers. Transporting eight-week old dogs that way isn’t safe, and according to Lewis Turner, owner of the Petcare Company in California, four out of ten dogs that were trucked in to him by brokers Lambriar and Hunte were sick, “with green liquid coming from their eyes or nose.” Hardly “responsible placement” by any standard.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 73

Hemby, who coined the term, “the pet extinction act” (after a spay/neuter bill), told me he knew very few breeders who support puppy farms or selling to pet shops. He also took a well-aimed shot at Strand and the AKC. “Puppy farms register a lot of dogs. The AKC is supposedly the professional organization for the purebred dog people. And yet, they profit by these puppy farms. They really ought to have a code of ethics,” he said. The skirmish is intensifying with an incendiary NAIA billboard campaign to “Expose Animal Rights!” with a hundred billboards up in California and a plan to expand across the nation. The campaign, called “anemic” by HSUS's Markarian, links the AR movement to terrorist activities. Judie Mancuso, animal protection advocate and president of Social Compassion in Legislation, has been the target of a hate campaign with cartoons depicting her as a witch. She told me she is astounded by “the lie that we’re this extremist bunch who are out to eliminate dogs, that we want to ban breeding so we can eliminate them from the planet. They’re delusional!” About the convenient argument by breeders that pet overpopulation is a myth, Mancuso responds, “It makes me want to fight harder. I think of the dead animals that I’ve seen in fifty gallon barrels and stacked in freezers and euthanasia rooms.” Mancuso isn’t afraid to take on the AKC. “I’ve looked at their tax forms. They didn’t spend millions cleaning up puppy mills; they spent millions on top salaries of top executives. Patti Strand works for puppy mills and fur farmers. The only thing they spend millions on is salaries and employee benefits.” Stephan Otto, director of legislative affairs for the Animal Legal Defense Fund, is adamant about the need for legislation. “I have zero trust in self-regulation by the animal industry,” he says. “They’re not in business for the welfare of animals; they’re in business to make money.” Some commercial breeders are fomenting paranoia, arming themselves for violence, as this breeder on a Yahoo meet-up group makes clear: “Every breeder I know is armed to the teeth…Hot lead is a good motivator even for the most sincere AR wacko. In addition we also have 32 observation cameras on the property and every second of every day is taped. At night all cameras are night vision and we have lots of motion sensor lights that come on.” One wonders what this breeder is hiding behind all those cameras and guns. His homestead sounds disturbingly similar to the Branch Davidian compound in Waco, but with dogs. Bill Smith, president of Mainline Animal Rescue, knows all

74 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

about what goes on inside commercial breeding facilities. “Odd that the industry promotes their puppies as family companions, living inside and sleeping in a child's bed, but has no problem with the practice of keeping the puppies' mothers in outside rabbit hutches or stacked in unheated barns,” Smith says. “The day a breeding dog is born in a puppy mill, she is placed in her coffin—a box only slightly longer than her body. Then she dies eight or nine years later. Many Amish breeders in Pennsylvania debark their breeding dogs by damaging their vocal chords with pipes or sharp objects. They don't want their neighbors to know that they have eight hundred breeding dogs in their barns. We have rescued dogs in the greatest of physical pain and they could not cry out because the breeders had robbed them of their voices.” As the war in the legislature pushes on, there is an easy solution that would put puppy mills out of business—a simple solution that can be achieved by the public: Stop buying dogs. There are millions of wonderful dogs dying in the shelters. Adopt one.

For more information: www.aldf.org www.hsus.org www.fund.org www.mlar.org www.naiaonline.org www.socialcompassioninlegislation.org www.stoppuppymills.org

About the Author: Carole Raphaelle Davis is an animal welfare advocate and author of The Diary of Jinky, Dog of a Hollywood Wife. Visit her web site at: www.hollywoodjinky.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 75

3rd Annual Bow Wow

WOW

Howlywood Celebrity Fundraiser Benefitting Much Love Animal Rescue (www.muchlove.org)

August 22nd, 09 ~ Hollywood, CA

Carole Sax, Stephanie Levy and Carole Raphaelle Davis enjoying the Bow Wow Gala. Photo by Jamie Downey.

76 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

steel

Photo by Seth Ca

Photo by Pam Holt

Photo by

Seth Caste

Photo by Seth Casteel

Photo by

Jamie D

owney

Photo by Seth Castee

Photo by

Photo by Seth Casteel

Photo by

Jamie D

owney

Jamie Dow

ney

steel

Seth Ca

Photo by Seth Casteel

Photo Photo by

owney Jamie D

Photo by

by Seth

Seth Caste

Castee

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 77

Mom, let's go shopping!

THE DOG SCENE

Lap of Luxury

A Bedtime Tail

By Julia Szabo

keptics may scoff, but a deluxe mattress offering the sleeper full-body support is not necessarily a luxury. Dogs spend about sixteen hours of each day sleeping; we humans, if we're lucky, average 6 or 7 hours of shuteye per night. Surveys reveal that more than half of American dog owners permit their pets to sleep with them in bed. That's a lot of quality human-canine bonding time—so why ruin it by subjecting tired muscles and sore joints to a hard, unyielding mattress that only makes muscles more tired and joints more sore? Dogs have orthopedic needs every bit as urgent as our own. Besides preventing trips to the chiropractor and/ or acupuncturist, each one of the three deluxe mattresses featured here has a unique practical application in a home with dogs. (And that's good, because they certainly don't come cheap—prices range from the four to five figures!) For dog owners who enjoy sleeping in, and prefer not to be awakened at the crack of dawn by a panting K9 demanding to go out NOW, the ideal choice is a Duxiana mattress. More than a luxury bed, this is a "sleep environment" designed to keep the sleeper's spine perfectly aligned. Owners of these soft, dreamily comfortable mattresses rave about how their bed enables them to keep hitting the alarm clock snooze button—

80 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

because their dogs are too busy blissfully snoring alongside them, instead of begging for a walk! This fabulous feature is especially appreciated on cold, rainy winter mornings. As for dogs with extra-long spines, such as Dachshunds or Basset Hounds, the spine-aligning magic of Duxiana could arguably prevent spinal injury in these very vulnerable breeds.

www.Duxiana.com Tempur-Pedic is renowned for making memory-foam mattresses that conform to every last curve of a body's unique shape, from head to tail. That pressure-relieving property of the Tempur-Pedic mattress is especially beneficial to aging and arthritic dogs, providing allover comfort and joint support while old-timers sleep. It's also greatly appreciated by large and giant breeds of all ages, who tend to develop sores and calluses from sleeping on hard surfaces. The American Dog Magazine's Heather Green reports that her Doberman, Jaidyn, and two Great Danes, Remi and Bella, simply adore the Tempur-Pedic mattress they share with her and her husband Kevin—and that the mattress has stood up beautifully to their "almost 350 pounds of dog!"

www.Tempur-Pedic.com

Made without the use of chemical components, the Hastens mattress is ideal for dogs who suffer from allergies. English Bulldogs are quite prone to allergies; happily for one lucky Bulldog boy named Twombly, his owner, award-winning fashion designer Ralph Rucci, invites him up to his Hastens "Excelsior" bed, which contains nothing to trigger any adverse reaction. In fact, Ralph positions a convenient, carpeted step-up adjacent to the bed, making it easy for short-legged Twombly to reach their communal coccoon. Some clever customers save money by purchasing Hastens baby crib mattresses and putting them to use as dog beds.

Twombly the English bulldog relaxes on the heavenly Hastens mattress he shares with his favorite human, fashion designer Ralph Rucci. The stuffed horse is also by Hastens. Photo by Heather Green.

www.Hastens.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 81

THE DOG SCENE

What’s New!

Check out these NEW products! Evanger’s Adds Wild Salmon to Hand Packed Line Evanger’s Hand-Packed Specialties are uniquely

packed into the can by hand as opposed to a machine in order to maintain the shape, integrity, and nutrition of each recipe's contents. Their fresh, natural and superior ingredients (no by-products) ensure quality on a human-grade level. Their newest addition to this unique Hand Packed line is Evanger’s Wild Salmon for Cats and Dogs. This is available in 6 ounce and 13 ounce cans. This fish is high in protein and low in calories and saturated fat, which aligns with Evanger’s belief in simple, protein-based dinners with USA-sourced ingredients. Wild Salmon is a heart-healthy fish that is very high in Omega 3 Fatty Acids, which the body cannot produce on its own. Evanger’s is proud to add a palatable, vitamin-rich food that optimizes pet health. Evanger’s Dog & Cat Food Company, Inc. Made in the USA (www.evangersdogfood.com)

Mulligan Stew Launches NEW Line of Premium Baked Kibble Food for Dogs! Mulligan Stew Pet Food is proud to announce the release of its first dry dog food line, Mulligan Stew’s Premium Baked Kibble. The new product launch will take place at the fall industry trade shows, SuperZoo and HH Backer. Anticipation is proving strong for Mulligan Stew’s first baked dry food line, inclusive of its revolutionary patent-pending formulation.

Mulligan Stew’s Premium Baked Kibble will offer differentiators in ingredient selections, manufacturing practices and packaging. According to Diane Peterson, Mulligan Stew’s Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, “we chose an experienced baked kibble manufacturer located in the heart of the USA, who is an Ethoxyquin-Free facility and will produce our kibble line utilizing wind powered energy. This complies with our Company’s eco-friendly sustainability policy.” “However, the most important elements in our new baked kibble line are the ingredients and the baking process. We chose ingredients exclusively for their functional purpose in the body and have not included any unnecessary ingredients or chemically manufactured supplements. The choice to bake versus standard extrusion processes, assures higher nutrient absorption, as well as higher digestibility. And, our kibble ingredient deck is the smallest in the industry! On the back of our packaging is an explanation of each ingredient’s purpose within the pet’s body. Consumer education is a hallmark of

82 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Mulligan Stew and we believe this ‘on-shelf education’ will help everyone better understand exactly what they are feeding their pets.” Mulligan Stew Company www.mulliganstewpetfood.com

THE DOG SCENE

Celebrity Profile

JOSH LUCAS

Photos courtesy of Josh Lucas.

By Julia Szabo

verybody knows that shelter-dog adoption is the right thing to do. But leave it to Hollywood heartthrob Josh Lucas to prove that it's also the cool, sexy thing to do! Josh adopted Loki, his beloved black mutt, from his local animal shelter, New York City's Animal Care & Control on 110th Street. Like many shelters around the country, "110" is overcrowded with wonderful, adoptable pets. So the indemand actor sat down for this exclusive interview, to help spread the word that 110 is the place to go to find your new best friend.

that was a play on that, and I had the hope that naming him after the God of Mischief might inspire some attitude. Well it worked, he's a punk now. Loki is not your first adopted dog; please tell us about the others.

Norse mythology?

My first dog Ozzy (named after Ozzy Osbourne) I found when he was a white ball of fluff about 6 weeks old and abandoned in the parking lot of a Washington State Ferry terminal. I was 13 years old and he and I slept outside on my family's porch (even in the pouring rain) every single night for a year. We were under an awning during the rain and snow, but we did 365 days and then we moved back inside!

Loki was so shy and scared and sweet when I first got him; his name at 110 was "Hercules," which sure didn't fit. He really was almost too low-key, so I wanted to give him a name

My mother now has the dog I rescued while working on Sweet Home Alabama. Amazingly, this was during the scene in the movie in the Coon Dog Cemetery (a real thing in the South)

What inspired you to name your dog after a figure in

84 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

where Reese Witherspoon and I discuss our characters' old dog "Bear." While filming the scene, a crew member found, hiding under a coon dog gravestone, a very sick Lab mix and her 9 emaciated and equally sick puppies. The entire crew rallied around the dogs, paid for their vet bills, got them healthy, and found homes for all of them. I took the runt and named her Bear; she lives with my mother, and is one of the great dogs of all time. Are rescue dogs extra special in some way?

I am totally convinced that all rescue dogs know they have been given a second chance and they seem to have something magical about them ... Every rescue I've had and know seems more connected with their human and brings more joy than I can adequately explain. It feels mystical. How would you describe Loki's personality?

I sometimes wish I were more like Loki. I have friends and ex-girlfriends call me to hang out with Loki and not me. He is a bit of a dog/human whisperer, in that people who don't like dogs love him, and dogs that don't like other dogs seem to be

totally disarmed by him. Might Loki ever score a part in one of your films?

Yeah, I can't wait to work with him. He's been a bit picky so far about making his debut. Has Loki ever accompanied you to rehearsal/set?

He is a total set dog, and particularly loves makeup trailers and all the girls that work in them. I'll head in to shoot leaving him in the trailer and when I come back he'll be gone; then I'll find out the transportation department has taken him on a drive, or the lead actress has taken him on a hike (both true stories). He totally steals all the attention no matter where we are. When I rehearse lines and he's around, he seems to know that I'm acting weird and he gives me these very skeptical looks, like, "Really, you're gonna play it that way?!?" If Loki were a Hollywood legend, who would he be?

Loki is smooth. He's got a real Cary Grant essence about him: Loves the ladies but is also a guy's guy. And if need be, he can get tough. But mostly he's just a Lover.

For more information: Animal Care & Control of NYC 326 East 110th Street New York City, NY 10029 (212) 788-4000  www.nycacc.org Visit the official Web Site for Josh Lucas at: www.joshlucas.com Or the Josh Lucas Underground fan site at: www.joshlucasu.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 85

Breed-Specific Legislation – A “Cure” Worse Than The Disease

By Jim Willis http://www.crean.com/jimwillis

hose of us who fight to protect animals have taken pages from history and learned from all the great campaigns for human rights and social equality—for religious freedom, for Jews, for women, against apartheid, for the American Negro, for the specially challenged, and for homosexuals. In each of those human issues, victims rose up, leaders emerged, and eloquent speeches rang out that continue to inspire us to action, from the likes of a Martin Luther to a Martin Luther King, Jr.

Anti-BSL Rally held in Denver on August 25, 2009. Photos courtesy of David Edelstein of www.denverkillsdogs.com.

Animals have no voice and their victims suffer in silence. When we speak out for them, we often have to scream to be heard, because those we’ve elected to represent us are often deaf to the needs and concerns of those who love, keep, protect, and save animals. As animal lovers and advocates, we are not immune to the disagreements and internal struggles that colored those other great campaigns. Our interior divisions and polarizations are often used against us by our opponents as a sign of weakness, or disorganization, or proof that we don’t know what we are talking about. Our critics like to dismiss us as “fanatics,” or “nutcases,” or “animal crazies.” They like to name one group that works for animals, with an undeniable talent for garnering media attention, and claim we’re all cut from the same cloth, we’re all members of one group, we only have one agenda. In reality there are thousands of groups around the world devoted to animal causes and our numbers include scientists and scholars, veterinarians and biologists, educators and eager students, the brightest and best of the entertainment world, royalty, and a billionaire or two. Our opponents are lucky that we haven’t yet been able to focus all that genius,

86 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

talent, and energy, but all change is incremental and it takes a while to amass the troops. The animals are waiting for us to focus. Our opponents ignore scientific data, statistical evidence, and legal precedence in order to concoct such “solutions” to animal problems as breed-specific legislation. They are sending us a message that their opinions matter more than our expertise. Universally, we have elected people who don’t know dogs and who impose their wills on those of us who do know dogs. Under the guise of protecting their citizenry and protecting our children from harm, they have managed to put into place, or propose, legislation that discriminates against dog breeds and violates our rights. They break human and animal hearts, seize dogs in front of our children, and are guilty of murdering innocent animals. We are taught since childhood and often claim that America is the greatest country in the world. Our jingoistic view has sometimes caused people in other countries to hate us, or fear us, or be suspicious about our motivations. We are one of the greatest countries in the world, and we are known around the world as a beacon of democracy. Sometimes our patriotism has extended to believing we have

the right to step on others’ rights, including those of our own citizens. Sometimes our government at all levels has assumed they are qualified to legislate away human stupidity or lack of responsibility. This is the only country I’ve ever lived in or visited where plastic dry cleaner bags are labeled “This is not a toy.” Adults in most countries know to keep plastic bags away from children. It confounds me that the same country that is so adamant about defending our Constitutional right to own guns, while leading the world in violent crimes committed with guns and deaths by gunshot; that is so vocal in protesting a national healthcare plan, when almost 50 million of its citizens are uninsured; that is so “moral,” yet leads the world in exporting pornography; and that so passionately resists “gay marriage,” when some other civilized countries have woken up to the fact that it is just plain wrong to deny homosexuals the same rights as heterosexuals, especially for religious-based reasons in a country that demands separation of Church and State— would be the same country that would tell me what kind of dog I can own. Truth be told, I trust my dogs more than I usually trust our government. Our opponents didn’t ask those of us who know dogs for our input. They don’t realize that the media only reports the tragedies, and in a country with nearly 60 million owned dogs, those tragedies are few and far between. They quote “statistics” manufactured and tailored to suit their needs and misguided thinking. They don’t admit that many of us are parents, too, who have successfully raised kids and dogs together in a happy tangle. They don’t know our horror as responsible dog owners whenever we hear of a dog-involved tragedy (usually involving human error and a lack of responsibility and supervision). There is no such thing as a “Pit Bull Problem” or a “dangerous dog breed” threat in America, or anywhere else. But there is a history of ignorance, social irresponsibility, and lack of compassion where animals are concerned in general, and especially regarding Man’s Best Friend, the dog. As a society we allowed pet shop sales, backyard breeders, puppymills, dogfighting rings, animal cruelty and neglect, unchecked accidental breeding, and disposability of pets to all take root—for lack of education, lack of societal disapproval, lack of government foresight, lack of public funding for legitimate, compassionate solutions. And now we are paying the price for the cancer whose proposed cure is sometimes more painful and insidious than the original disease. Only if we allow it. Ever since The Boston Tea Party and Henry David Thoreau’s treatise on “Civil Disobedience” (“That government is best which governs least”), we have defended personal freedom and democracy at all costs. We shouldn’t allow government to dictate what kinds of dogs we keep, or allow them to take and kill our dogs. We can’t allow politicians to propose new, terrible legislation and hold on to old laws that cost taxpayers dearly to support an ineffective “solution”

to a mythical “problem.” All the rest of a true and lasting solution—increased education; a call for more personal responsibility as dog owners; the recognition of what dogs need, such as proper breeding, socialization, supervision and containment; eradicating cruel sources of the problems, puppy mills and dogfighting rings; and adequate funding of an animal welfare system that works—that is our responsibility as compassionate citizens. As Gandhi said, “A nation and its moral progress can be judged by the manner in which its animals are treated.” We need to do a better job of working together and working with our government at all levels. We need to remind our politicians that it is still “We the People,” and that includes people with dogs who fight back with their wallets and vote their conscience.

About the Author: Jim Willis’ animal-related books have been published in eight countries, including the best-selling Pieces of My Heart—Writings Inspired by Animals and Nature and he is one of the most published animal advocates in the world. His essay about an unwanted dog, “How Could You?” has been published in 50 foreign languages and made news when it was broadcast by radio stations and drivers pulled off the road in tears. His writings help fund his and other animal-rescue efforts and in 2008, he was named the USA-East Ambassador for World Animal Day, observed every year on October 4th.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 87

THE DOG SCENE

Author Profile

TAMIRA THAYNE Founder of Dogs Deserve Better and Author of Scream Like Banshee

Photo courtesy of Dogs Deserve Better

The American Dog reports

ere at American Dog we’re all about the dogs, naturally. So, we ask, is there a better way to show your commitment to mangy mutts and Springer Spaniels than fostering your favorite breed and knowing the little gem will secure a fresh spot in the good-dog zone because of your dedication and tenderosity? (Generosity spiced with tenderness, of course.) Rescue groups, which have sprung up in every nook and cranny of America’s richly-quilted lands, account for a large portion of the dogs placed in new families each year. These groups depend on doggie foster homes to house and train the abandoned companions who desperately need a healing hand. That’s where Tamira Thayne, founder of Dogs Deserve Better, and her book Scream Like Banshee: 29 Days of Tips and Tales to Keep your Sanity as a Doggie Foster Parent come in. Thayne, foster parent to more than 100 formerly-chained dogs since forming DDB seven years ago, has sage advice and laughter for everyone from the newby foster parent to the frazzled do-gooder such as herself. Considering foster parenting? Thayne’s advice: Jump. No, not off a bridge—that comes later—but right into the foster parenting without bogging yourself down with excuses or

88 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

procrastination; she reminds us that just committing is what benefits the dogs. Foster martyr? Thayne can relate, recommending you find your ideal number of fosters that allows time for YOU, without guilt, taking your pleasures, too, and knowing you deserve them. Scream Like Banshee includes a 29-day foster diary of Thayne’s own experiences that keeps you both laughing and crying. The best part? A portion of all sales benefit her organization, Dogs Deserve Better, and bring America’s dogs into the home and family.

For more information or to make a donation: Tamira Ci Thayne Founder, Dogs Deserve Better P.O. Box 23 Tipton, PA 16684 (877) 636-1408 www.dogsdeservebetter.org info@dogsdeservebetter.org www.ScreamLikeBanshee.com http://www.dogsdeservebetter.org/donations.html

Please donate to help chained dogs today!

THE DOG SCENE

Author Profile

RANDY GRIM

Founder of Stray Rescue of St Louis and author of DON’T DUMP THE DOG

Photo courtesy of Stray Rescue

By Randy Grim

am often asked why I started Stray Rescue. I often ask myself that, too. I never devised a game plan or had a vision—it started, I suppose, out of necessity. I do know that 15 years ago, I hated my job as a flight attendant and figured there had to be more to life than asking: “chicken or beef?”

media attention caught me like a deer in headlights. I am a very private, shy person (with lots of phobias including a fear of public speaking), so dealing with the TV shows, magazine articles, movie offers, and speaking engagements has been a real endurance test for me.

Before Stray Rescue, I'd see stray dogs—some in packs—and in an effort to get them off the streets, I'd make the normal calls to the local shelters and government agencies, only to find out that these dogs were simply out of luck. I started to think of ways to catch them, and before long I invented some wacky capture methods and enlisted friends to help save the poor guys. Each year, the makeshift organization grew as I overloaded everyone I knew with a stray dog.

But I love the dogs I save. I feel their pain, so I keep up the act of “The Man Who Talks to Dogs” and write books like Don’t Dump the Dog, so those canines don't suffer and die. That's pretty much all there is to it.

Little did I know that our attempts to help a few stray dogs would evolve into two no-kill shelters with a legion of more than 200 volunteers and have an impact on the stray dog crisis in America. It was after a book was written about my work with street dogs that things kind of exploded, and the subsequent

For more information: Randy Grim Stray Rescue of St Louis 1463 S. 18th St. St. Louis, MO 63104 (314) 771-6121 www.strayrescue.org

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 89

WORKING DOGS

CALMING CANINES Autistic Children Overcome Obstacles with the Help of their Canine Friends

By Tamra Monahan

or autistic children, the world is a frightening place. The rush of traffic, the noise of conversations, the joyful screams of excited children, and the chaos of everyday life can be overwhelming. Their brains can’t handle the sensory overload most people take for granted, and when autistic children feel overwhelmed, they react. Some retreat from the world by hiding, some scream, and some have outbursts that are difficult for parents to control. Autism assistance dogs help these children cope with their world. According to Karen Shirk, Executive Director of 4 Paws for Ability, the dogs are trained to perform behavior disruption. If a child is having a meltdown with uncontrollable screaming and crying, or he is performing repetitive obsessive behaviors, the parent can tell the dog to snuggle, nudge, touch, or lie down with the child. These soothing gestures act as a distraction to take the child’s attention away from the unwelcome behavior. Denise Standley understands how a dog’s loving touch can have a profound effect on a child struggling with autism. Nitro, a Golden Retriever, is an assistance dog who helps Denise’s autistic son DJ both at home and at school. When DJ has a meltdown, Nitro stays by his side until the tantrum subsides. During one such episode, Denise could not get DJ to calm down, so she sent him to his room with Nitro. When she went up to check on him, she was pleasantly surprised by

90 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

what she found. Even though he was still yelling, DJ was gently petting Nitro, and the longer he sat with the dog, the calmer he became. As she watched the two of them, she could almost see the anger leave DJ’s body. “Nitro has changed DJ's life in so many ways,” Denise says. “The biggest change is that he is so much happier and more outgoing. Nitro has also been a blessing for our family because he’s another resource to help us deal with the autistic part of DJ, and now I'm not the only source of comfort that DJ has.” Jonathan Schriever used to hide from the world. He hated the chaos and noise of shopping centers. A visit to the doctor’s office was so frightening he would lie down in the parking lot and refuse to get up. His family was reluctant to go on vacation or to an amusement park or even a playground, because he might run away or have a meltdown in public. But this lucky seven-year-old found Boo, and his life changed forever.

a bubble and expect the world to pass him by. He had to learn to cope with the stimulus around him, and he was getting too large for the stroller. Jonathan’s parents had a problem, and Boo was the solution. This gentle dog taught her boy that the world doesn’t have to be a scary place. With Boo’s help and calming influence, the seven-year-old came out of his bubble, instead of hiding from the world. The family can now shop at the mall, go to the grocery store, and take a vacation without having to deal with Jonathan’s fears and reluctance. “The change in our lives since we got Boo has been incredible,” Carrie says. “She’s helped Jonathan so much, and it’s wonderful to see him doing things other kids do.”

Boo is a beautiful black Labradoodle—Jonathan’s guide, companion, and best friend. As an autism assistance dog trained by Colorado Service Dogs, Boo’s job is to help Jonathan deal with the stress and anxiety of everyday life, as well as keep him safe. Since Boo came along, Jonathan and his family have gained the freedom and peace of mind they desperately needed. “With Boo around, Jonathan is excited because he gets to do things, and we’re excited because we get to do things,” says Jonathan’s mom Carrie. “We’re not housebound anymore. It was hard to go anywhere or do anything, but now with Boo, it means we get to have a life again.” Prior to having an autism assistance dog, Jonathan was confined to an adaptive stroller whenever the Schrievers went out. Often, he would hide in his stroller, under the canopy, with a blanket in front of him to keep the outside world from getting in. Carrie realized it wasn’t good for her son to live in

Safety is a key issue for parents of autistic children because they have little or no concept of danger. They can run out into a busy street, wander off in stores and shopping malls, or open an unlocked door and leave the house. Keeping track of an autistic child 24 hours a day takes a toll on parents and families, and for many, their salvation comes with four legs and a wagging tail. Autism assistance dogs are trained to protect their kids. At home, many dogs keep a watchful eye on the autistic child, alerting the family if he is going into an area that is off-limits. In public, the child is tethered to the dog, who is leashed to the parents. If the child tries to run or wander off, the dog is trained to stop, sit, or lie down, thus becoming an anchor. Sometimes an innate sense of danger and fierce loyalty will cause a dog to act on his own to save a child’s life. Such was the case for Jonathan and his loveable Labradoodle. Shortly after getting Boo, Carrie tried to get Jonathan into the car, but he ran toward the street instead. Without prompting, Boo darted in front of Jonathan, preventing him from reaching the dangerous street. Carrie was amazed at Boo’s ability to sense danger and act on her own to save her son. The world is full of hazards for autistic children, and it can be a scary, frustrating, lonely place. But dogs like Boo and Nitro can take these frightened kids and turn them into happy campers. (OPPOSITE PAGE) Jonathan and his mom are now able to walk to the park thanks to their autism assistance dog Boo. Photo by Katie Monahan (ABOVE) Noah’s family used to hold onto him whenever daring to go shopping, but now Noah walks calmly through a store aided by his service dog Murphy. Photo courtesy of 4 Paws for Ability. (LEFT) Five-year-old Hunter looks out over the horizon under the watchful eyes of Kicker. Photo courtesy of 4 Paws for Ability.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 91

THE DOG SCENE

Non-Profit

ANIMAL ACRES is the place to be Where do celebrities gather with cows, pigs, and chickens? Animal Acres, of course! The American Dog reports

ocated just 45 minutes from Hollywood, Animal Acres is the newest Los Angeles “must see” destination for animal lovers. The 26-acre, hacienda-style sanctuary is home to hundreds of rescued cows, pigs, chickens, turkey, goats, sheep, and other country critters who have been rescued from cruelty and neglect. Visitors are encouraged to get up close and personal with the sanctuary residents and talk to a turkey, kiss a cow, or give a pig a belly rub (a traditional “must do” activity at the sanctuary), with the hope that once you get to know a farm animal, you won’t want to eat one! Animal Acres was formed in 2005 by Farm Sanctuary cofounder Lorri Houston, who is considered the pioneer of the farm animal sanctuary movement. She opened the nation’s first shelter for farm animals in 1986, and she has helped motivate, train, and inspire dozens of individuals to open farm

animal shelters (now numbered at over 25). Animal Acres is her newest sanctuary project, and in less than five years, the sanctuary has already received national news coverage; Animal Acres was featured on the popular television series “30 Days” and gained the support of dozens of Hollywood’s famous friends of farm animals, including Ellen DeGeneres, Daryl Hannah, Alicia Silverstone, and Bill Maher. “I’m pleased to be a supporter of Animal Acres,” Maher says. “This special place is giving city slickers an opportunity to get to know farm animals—and it’s hard to eat a pig after you’ve given one a belly rub.” Sadly, billions of animals suffer from birth to death, simply because they had the misfortune to be born a “food animal.” Most animals used for food production are raised on factory farms, intensive confinement systems where the animals are forced to live in cages or crates so small they cannot walk, and can barely turn around. During transport, animals can be legally shipped up to 36 hours without food, water, or rest. At the slaughterhouse, animals are often slaughtered while still fully conscious—under state and federal laws, 90 percent of animals killed for food do not have to been stunned prior to slaughter.

92 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

YOU

Animal Acres Needs

ANIMAL ACRES is supported entirely by its dedicated members. If you believe Los Angeles needs a farm animal sanctuary, Animal Acres needs YOU! You can help in several ways... • B ecome an ANIMAL ACRES MEMBER. Members contributing $25 or more per year receive a free tour every Sunday, so you can kiss a cow as often as you’d like! Members also receive discounts to area restaurants and cruelty-free shops—and the great feeling that comes with knowing you are making L.A.’s farmed animal sanctuary possible. • J oin the ANIMAL ACRES VOLUNTEER TEAM. Animal Acres depends on a dedicated team of volunteers to care for the sanctuary animals, conduct humane education tours, host sanctuary special events, and many other farm chores! • A ttend ANIMAL ACRES EVENTS, and encourage your friends and family to do the same. Animal Acres hosts a variety of educational and special events to educate and enlighten—from star-studded galas to Thanksgiving FOR the turkeys! Upcoming events include: Compassionate Cuisine Celebration – October 9 Decadent Desserts Cooking Class – November 7 Turkey Trot Walkathon – November 8 Thanksgiving FOR the Turkeys – November 21

Lorri became a vegetarian, and later, at age 16, gave up consuming and wearing animal products to become a vegan. As she explains, “I’ve always loved all animals, and started rescuing injured birds and stray dogs when I was 5 years old. As a teenager, I finally realized that if I love animals, I shouldn’t be eating them, and I haven’t eaten an animal since.” Lorri is convinced that everyone who cares about animals will eventually adopt a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, once they have the facts in hand, and have an opportunity to see farm animals as living, sentient beings instead of meat, dairy, or egg products. Lorri credits the farm animal sanctuary movement with opening people’s hearts and minds to the suffering of cows, pigs, and chickens—and she may just be right. After all, when was the last time you gave a pig a belly rub, and then ate a hot dog?

(OPPOSITE TOP) Joel Pfeifer and Thumper. Photo by Erin Pfeifer (OPPOSITE BOTTOM) Patty Shenker and Nicole. Photo by Erin Pfeifer (TOP) Lorri Houston Cuddling with Jamie. (BOTTOM) Actor James Cromwell and Violet. Photo by Denise Herrick Borchert

For more information: Animal Acres 5200 Escondido Canyon Rd Acton, CA 93510 (661) 269-5404 www.animalacres.org

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 93

THE DOG SCENE

Non-Profit

Strangest Angels Animal Rescue

By Carole Raphaelle Davis

lle Wittelsbach, founder and president of Strangest Angels Animal Rescue in Los Angeles, is not your average rescuer. If you crossed Mother Theresa with Anna Nicole Smith (sans drugs and bloat) and added a shockingly childlike voice that articulates an emotional and

94 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

informed animal rights point of view, you might capture a glimpse of what this enigmatic woman is about. Of all the things she is—a photographer, an activist; tall, blond, sexy, tattooed, earthy, spiritual, vegan, strong, silly with a twisted sense of humor— she is primarily a savior to death-row dogs.

“I will continue to save lives in memory of my brother, my best friend, my hero, Ray Wittelsbach, who is my own special angel riding Harleys in the sky with our Dad.”

Elle doesn’t only save dogs. “We take in all breeds and all animals,” she says, adding, “Most rescues focus on a specific breed or on young animals. We take the seniors, the disabled, and animals who need medical treatment. We concentrate on the euthanasia list—the ones about to be killed due to overcrowding, back yard breeders, and the public not spaying and neutering their animals. We rescue many ‘special needs’ animals. Many are missing an eye or legs, or are genetically disabled. It really floors me that someone can have their fur kid until they are ten years old, and then just dump the dog at the pound. Maybe their children will do that to them at the old folks’ home.” Most of the animals taken in by Strangest Angels Rescue are placed in foster homes, where they undergo temperament testing, to learn which type of environment best suits their needs. When Elle was a child, she would bring home stray rats and dying wild birds. She would show them to her father and he would say, “You’re one strange angel.” She says the name stuck, and that’s how she named her non-profit rescue organization. When asked about a rescue she did that sticks out in her mind, she recounts the story of one particular dog. “I was driving,” Elle recalls. “It was raining and I saw a brown, matted ball of fur on a chain. I pulled my car over. This poor dog was filthy, his fur so over grown you could not tell if he had eyes. His collar was so tight I wondered how he could breathe. There was no water bowl for him, just some rotten chicken with maggots. I asked around about the dog’s animal guardians. One neighbor said they had moved. I unchained this baby and took him

Elle Wittelsbach with her adoption coordinatoor, Linda DeLizza. All photos by Neil Zlozower.

home with the help of my friend Theresa Dern. We both cut out his mats full of trash, sticks, rocks and gum. He seemed so happy after that! We dropped him off at the groomer’s and when we returned to pick him up, I almost fell on the floor! Underneath that dirty, brown, matted coat was a little, silver poodle mix. We got him on KTLA, a Los Angeles television station that features adoptable pets, and we received a phone call from actress and model Rebecca Romijn. She fell in love with him. Talk about your rags-to-riches story!” Of the animals she saves, Elle says, “They are all angels in a strange way. All animals who want nothing but to love and be loved are just angels in disguise.”

For more information or to make a donation: www.strangestangels.org strangestangelsr@yahoo.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 95

96 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

THE DOG SCENE

Pet Business Profile

BEDS-N-BISCUITS A B&B for your best friend

Five-Star Stay!

By Julie Bielenberg

ruce Miller has dogs in his DNA. Over the course of his life, he has parented over 30 dogs and he began showing Afghans at the age of 18. “Over the years I worked in various corporate settings, but the happiest part of my week was when I was with my dogs,” says Bruce of his passion. “It seemed only logical that when a friend told me about a kennel that came up for sale, I decided to buy it! And, as they say, that’s all she wrote!” Bruce opened up his bed and breakfast for four-legged guests eight years ago. Beds-n-Biscuits is the premier doggie hotel and daycare in the surrounding Denver area. Each year, it keeps getting better: “We just recently finished surfacing all 17 of our play yards with padded Astroturf™ because it’s easier on the joints and paws of our guests," Bruce says. "With the property over an acre there's a lot of room for the dogs to roam; and in 2010, we plan to add a swimming pool and an indoor arena.” The owner of Beds-n-Biscuits loves to spoil his own fourlegged ones as lavishly as the clients of his bed and breakfast. “I have lots of friends, but only three 'best' friends—my eight-year-old Smooth Fox Terrier, Emma; my three-year-old Greyhound, Dharma, and my two-year-old Afghan, Daphne.

Photos by Heather Green.

My girls are all AKC Champions, but they are also retired and enjoying every moment of their days hanging out with their friends at Beds-n-Biscuits,” gloats the proud papa. Even though there are ten dog-loving employees to tend to all the wants and needs of the canine kids, Bruce also enjoys spending his days playing with his girls and guests at the 80 climate-controlled indoor kennels. Beds-n-Biscuits also has a full-grooming salon, and offers doggie daycare plus a wellstocked gift shop so you can spoil your four-legged one when you pick him or her up after a hotel stay.

For more information: Beds-N-Biscuits 4219 Xenon St Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 (303) 940-9188 www.bedsnbiscuits.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 97

Pet Business Profile Sara England Designs THE DOG SCENE

Three Dog Martini

By Julie Bielenberg

t all began when Sara England designed a line of dogthemed t-shirts a few years ago. Designs included Labs surfing, sailing and doing all sorts of quirky and humaninspired activities. One of the creative pieces included three pooches drinking martinis. “Ironically, this was not a great seller for the t-shirt market, but when I offered it as a matted print in my art studio, it did very well,” explains England. “I began getting requests for other breeds and with other themes and this became my niche.” Her graphic art studio is located in New Market, Maryland. England’s co-workers are her beloved 12-year-old Chocolate Lab, Molly, and Sami, a 5-year-old Boxer. “Many local children come in just to visit them and leave with a smile and maybe a little Boxer drool (free love),” gloats the proud mother. England’s passion for art will never be satisfied. “There will always be a breed I have yet to draw and a whimsical idea that needs to come to fruition,” notes the artist. Her art and sense of humor is a gift, a way to help others see the lighter side of life. “I can make people happy through my art, I sometimes even hear them giggle in my shop.” This talented artist also finds time to assist dog rescues in their pursuit to save animals in need. England donates her services and offers anything from a print to be auctioned or help designing animal rescue logos and t-shirts for the non-profits.

98 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

For more information: Sara England (301) 865-1600 www.saraenglanddesigns.com www.barefootboutique.net

Shop Online!

Dog Apparel Dog Grooming Dog Collars Dog Jewelry

Dog Carriers Dog Beds Dog Toys And much more!

www.duds4pups.com

100 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

THE DOG SCENE

Pet Business Profile

Fetching Fashions

Function & Fun

Photo by Jesse Larner

By Julie Bielenberg

ose Warner of Fetching Fashions likes to be happy, and who doesn’t? “I have to make things to be happy, or rather, I am happy when I make things!” explains the proud owner of a custom collar and leash business. “I first had the idea to start making collars when I was working at a dog daycare in 2005. Some of the dogs at the daycare were pretty stylin', but I could see right away that there was a need for some fashion to be added to the mix,” notes Rose. She wondered if she could create a combination of her long love of sewing and great fondness for four-legged friends, and, if so,

could it be turned into a business? After months of research, fashion met function and that was how Fetching Fashions was born! This is now Fetching Fashions’ fourth year in business. The first designs were inspired by Rose’s two adopted Boxers, Cooper and Bella. They gave her such creativity; it truly helped the line flourish. Now, Fetching Fashions has numerous designs and several exclusives coming out this season. Rose also hopes to add dog harnesses and cat collars to the line in 2010. One of the best parts of the product line is this: everything is made in the USA, in Rose’s home state of Colorado. “I have a hand in making every collar and leash, which is very important to me," Rose explains. "The icing on the cake is when I am on a walk, or flipping through a magazine, and by chance I see a dog wearing one of my collars, looking very fetching and fashionable indeed."

For more information: Fetching Fashions (303) 319-1860 www.fetchingfashionsonline.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 101

THE DOG SCENE

Pet Business Profile

Canine Rehabilitation & Conditioning Group

GET WET! By Julie Bielenberg

ehabilitation for people injured in a sport or recovering from a surgery or illness is part of the recommended healing regimen. Why shouldn’t it be for dogs as well? If it were up to Lori Beuerle, it would. Lori was referred to the Veterinary Referral Center of Colorado for help with her Lab, Clark, who suffered shoulder ailments. “My two choices for treatment were exploratory surgery or rehabilitation,” explains Lori, who chose rehabilitation with Marty Pease. “Clark’s treatments brought it all together,” she says. The experience led Lori to partner with Marty to open a 6000-square-foot canine rehabilitation facility, Canine Rehabilitation & Conditioning Group (CRCG). CRCG looks and performs just like a human rehabilitation center. The staff practices exercise, recreation, and rehabilitation with their four-legged patients. The certified therapists and veterinarians use an underwater treadmill, an endless pool, and other physical therapy modalities to aid recovery. Lori’s previous dog, Indiana, gave her the inspiration to add the indoor

102 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

pool for pooches. “Indiana loved to swim, and the swimming options in the Denver area were limited,” Lori explains. The benefits of her dog’s swimming—prolonging Indiana's life and improving her comfort—proved to be priceless. In the next year, CRGG will expand its services. “We will be adding home care and drop-off services, a model that is coming closer to matching human health care," Lori promises. "We can help animals who are unable to leave the house, or whose caregivers are homebound.” CRGG also plans to offer a full range of consulting services nationwide to help veterinarians, physical therapists, and entrepreneurs create canine rehabilitation centers for their communities.   (ABOVE) Using the hoist to lower Sebastian into the endless pool. Photo by David Budd. (LEFT) Antke with Spliff using the Swiss Ball for balance and strengthening. Photo by Jon Orlando.

For more information: Canine Rehabilitation & Condition Group 3760 South Lipan Street Englewood, CO 80110 (303) 762-SWIM (7946) www.dog-swim.com

ďż˝

Now Taking Orders

for Pet

Portrait

Holiday Gifts!

Dog Portraits Graphic Design Murals Jane Brunton, Artist www.the-art-station.com

Safety

TOXIC PLANTS

Avoid These Plants to Keep Your Pets Safe!

By Elizabeth Bublitz Owner of Pawfriendly Landscapes Reviewed by Kris Ahlgrim, D.V.M. As a landscape designer for over twenty years, I understand the positive response humans have toward plants. Plants are not only beautiful, but they clean our air, provide shade, and have a calming affect on us.

However, many of the plants that provide so many pleasant benefits can be extremely toxic or even fatal to our dogs and should be avoided in the décor of your house or when landscaping your yard. Below are some commonly used plants, both indoors and outdoors, that are considered harmful. Please contact your local veterinarian immediately if your pet shows any abnormal behavior. For any questions or concerns, contact the ASPCA 24 hour emergency poison hotline at 1 (888) 4264435 (there is a fee so have your credit card ready) or Poison Control Center at 1 (800) 222-1222.

TOP: Angel's Trumpet photo by Elizabeth Bublitz. BELOW LEFT: Asiatic Tiger Lily. BELOW CENTER: Daffodil photo by Elizabeth Bublitz. BELOW RIGHT: Croton.

104 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Cardiovascular Toxins

Organ Failure Toxins

Azalea – entire rhododendron family, all parts of plant. Nausea, depression, vomiting, coma, difficulty breathing and cardiovascular collapse, death.

Daphne – berries. GI tract and kidneys affected by coumarin glycosides. Plant can also cause dermatitis.

Castor Bean – entire plant; seeds contain the toxin toxalbumins. One Rosary Pea or one or two castor bean seeds can cause death. Plant can also cause dermitis. Foxglove – entire plant. Cardiovascular system affected by cardiac glycosides digitalin and digitoxin. Digestive upset affected by saponins. Larkspur – seeds and immature growth. Cardiovascular system affected by alkaloids. Can also cause dermatitis, depression, nervousness, and GI upset. Lily of the Valley – entire plant. Irregular heartbeat/pulse and mental confusion caused by convallamarin. Gastrointestinal tract affected by glycosides convallarin.

Grapes/Raisins – fruit; a few handfuls can be fatal. Acute kidney failure. Symptoms initially include abdominal pain, lethargy and vomiting. Lantana – immature berries. Toxin is lantodene, an atropinelike toxin. Affects the lungs, kidneys, and nervous system. Lily – all species. Easter Lilies, tiger lilies, Japanese show lilies, rubrum lilies, star gazer lilies, many lily hybrids and day lilies have been known to cause kidney failure, especially in cats. Mushroom – Amanita species. Abdominal pain, depression, lack of appetite, drooling, liver damage, kidney damage, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, convulsions, coma, or death.

Miscellaneous Toxins Gastrointestinal Toxins Angels’ Trumpets – entire plant. Vomiting and nausea. Amaryllis Bulb – bulb. Hyperactivity, upset stomach, lethargy, coma, shock. Apple Leaf Croton – entire plant. Contains ricin, which causes severe hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, and degradation of kidneys and liver. Avocado – fruit, pit and plant. Contains persin, which causes damage to heart, lungs, and other tissues. Symptoms include difficulty breathing. Clematis – entire plant. Vomiting, diarrhea, oral ulceration, and nervous system damage. Can also cause dermatitis. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) – entire plant. Severe ulceration of mucus membranes in mouth and gastrointestinal tract, asphyxiation, tremors, loss of balance, death.

Cherry and Peach pits – cyanogenic. Toxin is a precursor to cyanide. Symptoms include brick red mucous membranes, difficulty breathing or panting, dilated pupils, shock, and death. Datura (Jimson Weed) – entire plant. Abnormal thirst, distorted sight, delirium, incoherence, and coma caused by the alkaloids atropine, scopolamine and hyoscyamine. May contain toxic levels of nitrates. Onions/Garlic – all forms of onions, cooked, raw, etc. cause hemolysis (destruction of the red blood cells). Symptoms may include labored breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, and discolored urine. Can be fatal after a few days of ingestion. Baby foods and snack foods can contain onion powder. Garlic is also toxic but much less so than onions and only if consumed in large quantities.

Neurological Toxins

Elderberry – entire plant. Cyanide-like toxicity causes diarrhea and vomiting.

Bleeding Heart – foliage and root only. Toxic in large amounts. Contains isoquinoline, a convulsant. Plant can also cause dermatitis.

English Ivy – berries and leaves; digestive system upset caused by saponins. Plant also causes dermatitis.

Rhubarb – leaves (cooked or uncooked). Convulsions, coma.

Iris – tubers. Toxin is glycoside iridin, which causes severe GI tract problems. Plant can also affect skin.

Yew – foliage is more toxic than berries. Seizures, dizzy, dry mouth, salivation, vomiting, and gastrointestinal problems. Death can be sudden and without symptoms.

Mistletoe – leaves, stems; berries can be fatal to puppies. Gastritis due to toxalbumins. Can also cause dermatitis. Narcissus, daffodil, hyacinth – bulbs. Digestive upset including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea; can be fatal. Nightshade – all parts, especially unripened berries. Extreme digestive disturbances from saponins. Neurological seizures can also occur along with cardiac dysfunction. Oak – acorn, foliage. Gastritis. Symptoms may include lack of appetite, constipation followed by diarrhea (sometimes bloodstained), blood in urine; symptoms appear after several days or week.

For more information or to contact: Elizabeth Bublitz (Owner) Pawfriendly Landscapes www.pawfriendlylandscapes.com (303) 797-6683 (877) 223-8744 Dr. Kris Ahlgrim www.goldenviewvet.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 105

Nutrition

Rejected Meat

Explaining the

4D’s

By Deb Dempsey

ow many times have you seen dog food commercials featuring juicy steaks and plump fresh chickens, not so subtly implying that is the main component in their food? Public relations firms create these visions on behalf of pet food companies because the general public would probably faint if they knew what was really being incorporated in their pet’s food.

A little background into commercial pet food

Commercial pet food companies began sprouting up in earnest

106 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

in the 1920s and 1930s in part because cereal companies and meat producers needed an outlet for increasing amounts of product deemed unsuitable for human consumption. Cereal companies had a plethora of wheat, rice and corn that failed USDA inspection and meat producers had thousands of tons of meat that they were unable to sell due to spoiling or diseased livestock. Rather than throw away rejected grain and spoiled meat, resourceful companies came up with the idea to incorporate their leftovers into pet food. Thus, commercial pet food became the original recycle bin for the human food industry.

What the heck is 4D “meat”?

To this day, large pet food companies incorporate meat unfit for human consumption into their pet foods. This meat is known to insiders as 4D meat and includes meat from DISEASED, DISABLED, DOWNER and already DEAD animals when they arrive at the slaughterhouse. We’ve all seen the horrific images of cows being pushed by forklifts across slaughterhouse floors in an effort to make them walk for USDA inspectors. If a cow cannot walk on its’ own accord to slaughter, that cow is considered a disabled or downer cow and is therefore unfit for your plate. If a cow dies in the stockyards or is severely diseased, again the USDA inspector would reject that particular cow for our own food supply – but it is apparently good enough for your dog, as the stockyard then sends that carcass to the nearest renderer for use in pet food, thereby salvaging some of their profit.

AAFCO regulations that specifically addresses humangrade ingredients for pet foods.” She went on to explain that in AAFCO’s eyes, “the claim of human-grade ingredients imply to a consumer that the food is acceptable for human consumption even though the final product has never been inspected by any health agencies.” She felt that the term human-grade would “give the impression that the food was of higher quality than it really is.” Ms. Crenshaw was only aware of one pet food that had ever received approval from the FDA to make that claim on their label and it sounds as if the company had to go to great lengths to accomplish that goal. So let me repeat – pet food companies are allowed to quietly use 4-D “meat” as a protein source in pet food but yet, they are not allowed to tell consumers if they are using human-grade ingredients. One has to wonder if this practice protects consumers or pet food manufacturers who opt to utilize unsavory ingredients.

And just what is rendering?

Euthanized pets in pet food

Rendering, by definition, is the process of melting animal products in a large vat, which separates the fat-soluble ingredients from water-soluble ingredients and solid materials. This process is designed to kill most bacterial contaminants, but the valuable natural enzymes and proteins contained in the raw materials are also often destroyed or changed in some way. The FDA / CVM (Center for Veterinary Medicine) reported on February 28, 2002 that, “Pentobarbital seems to be able to survive the rendering process. If animals are euthanized with pentobarbital and subsequently rendered, pentobarbital could be present in the rendered feed ingredients.” FDA scientists concluded that “the low levels of exposure to sodium pentobarbital that dogs might receive through food is unlikely to cause them any adverse health effects.” Unlikely? Does that ease your mind? It personally makes me wonder what other contaminants can survive the rendering process.

During my phone conversation with the acting chair of AAFCO’s pet food committee, the practice of utilizing euthanized pets as an ingredient in pet foods came up. For years, savvy animal lovers have suspected that euthanized pets from veterinary offices and shelters were ending up in pet food. Ms. Crenshaw admitted that there is an “abundance of protein that comes from animals that are put down at shelters and they are often picked up by renderers. Most pet food companies, however, sign agreements that they will not take rendered product that contains euthanized animals.”

The consumer is left in the dark

Luckily for the pet food companies, you’ll never find reference to rendering on the ingredient panel of your pets’ food. AAFCO, the Association of American Feed Control Officials Incorporated sets guidelines for pet food ingredient panels and outlines official feed definitions in their Annual Publication. While AAFCO allows manufacturers to utilize unsavory ingredients such as “recycled animal waste products” or “poultry hatchery by-product” without blinking an eye, they consider the term “human-grade” to be a claim that would need to be backed up through a complicated process of red tape. It is virtually impossible to find a pet food company that lists human-grade ingredients on their label, which would ideally help a consumer to avoid feeding their pet 4D meat. Teresa Crenshaw, acting chair of AAFCO’s pet food committee explained to me that “there is nothing in the

The ethical problem lies, however, in the term “most.” If all pet food companies don’t sign contracts like that, how is a consumer to know if the food they are feeding to their pets contains euthanized dogs and cats? Again, AAFCO would consider a reference to this a “claim” that we will probably never see on a bag of dog food, thereby protecting manufacturers who choose to use this ingredient. “It would be a difficult thing to prove in order to make that claim,” Ms. Crenshaw pointed out. Kurt Gallagher of the Pet Food Institute (a national lobbying firm that represents the majority of pet food manufacturers in the U.S.) explained that, “As a condition of membership, no Pet Food Institute member may utilize any material in their products that is derived from cats and dogs.” Consumers can find a list of PFI member companies at www.petfoodinstitute.org. So how can you ensure your pets are not being fed 4D meat?

After learning about these behind-the-scenes recycling practices, you may be asking yourself how you can avoid feeding these types of things to your beloved pet. It’s not as easy as you might think. Thanks to AAFCO’s stringent restrictions, a consumer cannot easily decipher the answer to this question simply by looking at a pet food label.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 107

1. Look for products that do not include rendered ingredients unless you have utmost confidence in that manufacturer. Ingredients such as meat meal,

animal by-product meal and animal fat are defined as rendered product by AAFCO and do not need to be from slaughtered animals. This broadly-defined description can signify that 4D meat is being used. In addition, the absence of a specific protein type (chicken meal vs. poultry by-product meal) can also signify lower quality ingredients. 2.

Contact the pet food company(s) directly.

Unfortunately, under AAFCO’s standards, consumers are forced to do much of the research on their own. Manufacturers have more leeway on their Web sites and marketing materials than they do on the actual product labels. Most manufacturers proudly list information on their ingredients on their Web site. If you are unable to easily locate the ingredients on a manufacturer’s site, this should be a huge flag. Pet food companies that are proud of their ingredients will make them very easy to find. Those that are not, highlight the benefits of their food and dance around the ingredient issue. 3. Get to know your local pet boutique owner. Unlike

the big box pet stores, these independently owned stores are generally more focused on nutrition and knowledgeable about high-quality foods. These stores generally have intimate relationships with their manufacturers and have done the research for you. They know which companies put nutritional passion ahead of profit in the pet food world.

Manufacturers speak out

Some manufacturers are incredibly proud of the fact that they don’t utilize low-quality protein sources in their pet foods and a few were happy to provide the following information: LIFE4K9 Pet Food Corp.: “We have legal documents in place that specifically state that there will be no recycled meats in any of our oven baked and canned products. The nature of this problem is so serious to us that we had these contracts drawn up to protect our dogs and the consumer. We always review each receipt and inspect the products that come into our plant for production. Only human-grade ingredients from the US or Canada are added to LIFE4K9’s products.” -Will Post, founder of LIFE4K9 Note: LIFE4K9 has donated more than $100,000 to no-kill shelters, thereby taking a stand against euthanized animals being incorporated in the nation’s pet food supply. Mulligan Stew Pet Food Company: “Mulligan Stew Pet Food Company is against the use of any 4D meats or substandard proteins in the production of its pet food. Dogs and cats require quality protein in their regular daily diets to ensure a long, healthy and disease-free life. Mulligan Stew sources and manages all of the ingredients in our products, using only

108 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

clean, striate muscle meat in its various recipes. Mulligan Stew prides itself on being a transparent company in order to showcase the strong stand they take on the use of poor quality ingredients. The company’s dog and cat customers are our No. 1 priority.” Diane Peterson, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Mulligan Stew Last word…

No one in their right mind would knowingly chop up a diseased chicken or a cow found lying dead in stockyard filth and throw it in their dog’s food bowl. Yet, every day unsuspecting consumers are feeding these ingredients to their four-legged friends. With just a little bit of research, you can avoid feeding proteins that have been rejected by the USDA for human consumption. After all, our pets generally eat the same meal two to three times per day for years on end. I can’t think of a more important reason to spend the time researching a quality pet food for them.

For more information: Deb Dempsey Mouthful’s Pet Boutique 4224 Tennyson St. Denver, CO 80212 (720) 855-7505 www.mouthfuls.net email: mouthfuls@worldnet.att.net

Health

Natural Remedies for Pet Problems

By Cindy Nelson

have been a pet owner for more than 35 years and I have always wondered why people choose products to use on their pets that contain chemicals that are harsh on the pet’s liver, skin and kidneys rather than the more natural, safer options. I know there are a number of companies that offer products made with safe ingredients, and the company I represent is one of them. I thought it might be a good time of year to address how to incorporate these products into your home for the sake of your pets. Melaleuca alternafolia oil is a very powerful tool when dealing with minor first aid applications. Due to its power, it is necessary to dilute the melaleuca oil with a carrier oil (ie: coconut oil, jojoba oil or olive oil); we prefer olive oil as it is heavier and has good anti-fungal properties. Skunk / Fleas / Ticks / Leeches: Has your dog or cat ever been

skunked? If they have, you know how hard it is to get the odor out of their fur. Some people swear by tomato juice, but another option is sodium bicarbonate (3-4 Tablespoons) in a tub of warm water and wash the pet with shampoo containing a very high concentration of melaleuca alternafolia oil—we use T36-C5®. In our house we use Naturals Melaleuca® Oil Shampoo or Antibacterial Liquid Soap, which both contain the natural oil. It is necessary to leave the product on the fur for a few minutes and then rinse. Repeat if necessary—the

110 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

longer the pet has the odor on it, the harder it will be to get it off! Ticks and fleas are repelled by Naturals Melaleuca® Oil Shampoo. To remove an embedded tick, use melaleuca alternafolia oil at the site of the tick. Without pulling, take a tweezers and pinch the tick, after a few minutes the tick will usually let go and back out. (Be sure to use gloves to avoid Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever). Abscess / Splinters / Paw Abrasions / Mange / Insect Bites & Stings: When defending their territory against other animals,

dogs can get a puncture wound. The best way to treat such a wound is to dab the abscessed area with a strong antiseptic mix of 5-10 drops of melaleuca alternafolia oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil. Usually the animal will not lick it due to the taste of the melaleuca oil, but keep them from licking the wound for at least 30 minutes. Apply for seven days after the abscess bursts. Any time you are trying to avoid an infection or are attempting to calm swelling for any of the previously mentioned conditions, you will want to apply a high-quality of melaleuca alternafolia oil mixed with a carrier oil. The process of using melaleuca alternafolia oil is simple, natural and painless and can usually heal the area in about 5-7 days. Most dogs will respond to these natural therapies, but continue to watch them to ensure their condition is improving. Natural is always best, but if your pet is not getting better or the area is getting worse, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How much do you love your baby?

WE ARE: A collection of luxury lifestyle pieces devoted to pampered pets and the adoring owners who spoil them silly. No. 242 Collection understands the bond you share with your companion and create our pieces with that relationship in mind. FAMOUS FOR: Sterling silver jewelry for dogs and their proud parents. Our creative collections are designed to be purchased in pairs, one for you and one for your baby. Hand crafted and uniquely designed to turn heads. OUR NEWEST OBSESSION: Comfort and fashion rarely go together, but we made it happen. We love the idea of creating unique doggy interiors that blend smartly with your surroundings. Don’t miss our new collection of beds, ramps and stairs. Customize your favorite piece to blend seamlessly with your home’s interior.

HOW MUCH DO YOU LOVE YOUR BABY?

866.725.0242

W W W. N O 2 4 2 C O L L E C TION.COM The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009

111

Wellness Is Your Pet’s Lack of Nutrition Leading to Behavioral Problems? By Lorileigh Moreland

n the USA, we have a pet retention problem. According to the National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA), the number of dogs entering shelters yearly is estimated to be around 4 million—nearly four out of five dogs surrendered are given up due to “behavioral problems.” Suddenly, man’s best friend becomes an inconvenience: health expenses, inappropriate elimination, destructiveness, barking, chewing, hyperactivity, food aggression compulsive disorders, reactivity, aggression, and digging are issues consistently reported in surrendered dogs. Owners who want to make it work with their family dog may have their dog examined by a vet to rule out health issues. They may try to exercise their dog and stimulate their psyche with play. Many resort to self-help training on the Internet or in books. From there, some may join a class while others seek private lessons with a trainer or behaviorist. While these aspects are important, they are ALL missing a key ingredient! What about nutrition?! If your vet finds nothing physiologically wrong with your dog, it may be time to look at your dog’s diet. Unfortunately, in the past, nutritional factors have been largely ignored by veterinarians, trainers and behaviorists, but that is changing rapidly. Today, more and more veterinarians, trainers and behaviorists are looking to food as a major influence on the mental health and behavior of their clients’ dogs. Some are so confident of the link that the first step in their health, training or behavioral program is to have their clients change their dog’s food. Not only are our dogs’ bodies fueled by the foods they eat but also their brains. Nutrition affects our dog’s moods, learning ability and attention span. So what is needed, and to be avoided, to help a dog feel better behaviorally?

Protein. When enzymes break down, certain amino 112 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

acids become available as precursors for hormone and neurotransmitter production. The amino acids “feed” the brain and the central nervous system and can therefore influence behavior. Our dogs, as carnivores, assimilate whole meat proteins far better than cereal and vegetable proteins, which are incomplete and often void of necessary amino acids. As a pet owner, seek out or make foods with whole meat ingredients as the primary source of proteins.

Essential Fatty Acids. EPA and DHA, components

of polyunsaturated fatty acids, support dopamine and serotonin levels, which, in turn, have a direct effect on learning, emotions and impulses. Adding EFAs to our dogs’ diets can increase attention span, decrease anxiety and help them control impulsive behavior.

Carbohydrates. A considerable amount of carbohydrates consumed by our dogs are indigestible. As a result, it is often necessary to increase other nutrients to insure nutritional profiles are met. Many carbohydrates are laden with sugars and act as doggie jet fuel. Carbohydrates should be limited in the diet. Feeding better foods can make a difference in your dog’s health and well-being in more ways that we can suspect today. The link between diet, health, training and behavior is mostly anecdotal, but so amply that it should not be ignored. “You are what you eat” is as true for dogs as it is for us.

For more information or to contact: Lorileigh Moreland, owner Pet Empawrium & Spaw 12393 W. 64th Ave. Arvada, CO 80004 (303) 467-7777 www.petempawrium.com

pure Kindness green tripe pet food

www.tripett.com

SAVE A LIFE.

www.petkind.com

Adopt a Dog From an Animal Shelter.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 113

Supplements SUPEROXIDE DISMUTASE (SOD) Increases K9 Life Span Scientific studies document that Dogs with higher levels of SOD live longer!

By Robert Kavanaugh

ree radicals and oxidative stress are associated with accelerated aging and the onset of degenerative diseases. Internally generated antioxidants provide far greater protection against the effects of oxidative stress than antioxidant nutrients. Young dogs naturally produce the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) to protect against destructive free radicals. Unfortunately, levels of SOD and CAT cannot keep up with the increased free radicals that occur as your dog ages. Adult dogs can now replenish their stores of powerful antioxidant enzymes. Emerging research suggests that a novel superoxide dismutase and Catalase (SOD/CAT) boosting agents help increase antioxidant status, reduce pain, quench free radicals, quell inflammation, and promote longevity. Over the past 60 years, numerous studies have demonstrated that superoxide and other free radicals contribute to aging. Antioxidant enzymes that naturally occur in the body— including SOD, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase—act to minimize this oxidative stress, thus protecting cell membranes, essential proteins, and DNA from damage. These endogenous (internally generated) antioxidants are produced within your dog's cells and are far more potent than dietary antioxidants in preventing free radical damage. SOD, for example, may be up to 3,500 times more potent than Vitamin C in quenching the dangerous superoxide radical. While levels of antioxidant enzymes like SOD normally remain relatively constant throughout a dog's life, regrettably, as cells age, an abundance of free radicals causes oxidative damage. Of particular concern are increases in superoxide radicals (O2-), which, when left unchecked, morph into more dangerous hydroxyl radicals (OH-), which are clearly linked with increased incidences of degenerative and inflammatory diseases.

disease-free lives. In research conducted in the early 1980s by Richard Cutler at the Gerontology Research Center at the National Institutes of Health, mammals that produced higher tissue and serum levels of SOD lived longer than those with lower SOD levels. Cutler's research demonstrated that mice and rodents have the lowest SOD levels among mammals, and that SOD levels are highest among more highly evolved mammals, with humans displaying the highest relative SOD levels. Humans produce an average of 90 micrograms per milliliter (mcg/ml) of SOD and live an average of nearly 80 years. Our closest primate relatives, chimpanzees, produce 40 mcg/ml of SOD and live an average of only 40 years. Fruit flies that have been bred to produce twice as much SOD as normal live twice as long as ordinary fruit flies. Cutler's crossspecies investigations strongly suggest that SOD is a primary determinant of longevity in mammals, and that increased SOD production played a key role in the higher order of mammals' evolution from shorter to longer life spans. Interestingly, although pigeons and rats weigh the same, pigeons live about 12 times longer. The difference is that pigeons have high SOD levels and produce about half as many free radicals as rats. Superoxide dismutase and catalase inducing supplements including AOX/PLX, Biovet's Dismutase, Canine Support , Feline Support, and Antioxidant Petwafer - have been offered through veterinarians since at least 1983. Biovet's antioxidant enzyme technology is a natural alternative to steroid-based anti-inflammatory drugs, especially with dogs, because they can suffer major side effects from corticosteroid use. Some homeopathic veterinary practitioners have documented their successful use of this antioxidant enzyme induction technology in place of the traditional corticosteroid drugs.

How SOD Promotes Longevity

Mechanisms of Action

SOD levels in canines vary by as much as 50% due to genetic differences, which may help to explain why some breeds are more prone to degenerative disorders while others lead long,

Biovet's antioxidant enzyme induction is accomplished by using phytoestrogen-rich sprouts and friendly probiotic bacteria. Healthy colon flora are designed to convert

114 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

weaker phytoestrogens, which are found in many conventional foods and supplements, into stronger, higher affinity ER-β phytoestrogens. By using a unique delivery system, Biovet's antioxidant enzyme formula uses prebiotics, probiotics, and existing gut micro-flora to convert weak phytoestrogens (daidzein) into stronger estrogenic compounds (including S-Equol and O-desmethylangolensin) inside the intestines. The preparation's genistein and S-Equol act as selective estrogen receptor site modulators (SERMs), which up-regulate SOD and catalase expression by acting as signaling molecules.

The Benefits Restriction

Calorie

For decades, we have understood that reducing normal calorie intake by about a third (called calorie restriction) can extend the lifespan of multiple species, including mammals. Calorie restricted mammals are healthy, energetic, and youthful-looking. They also show improvement in a number of factors associated with Type 2 Diabetes, such as reduced glucose levels and improved insulin sensitivity. Conversely, their peers fed Western diets age more rapidly and die younger. Research by David Sinclair, Ph.D., Harvard Medical School, and Leonard Guarente, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, found that calorie restriction activates a family of enzymes sirtuins. Sirtuins are a recently-discovered family of seven enzymes associated with the aging process. Modulation of these enzymes by food, supplements, or drugs offers the promise of protection against aging and age-related diseases including Type 2 Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, inflammation, cancer, and mitochondrial disorders. Resveratrol, a phytoestrogen-like compound found in red wine (among other places), mimics the effects of a calorie-restricted diet by modulating the genes responsible for regulating sirtuins.

What Antioxidant Enzyme Inducers have in Common With Calorie Restriction Mimetics: What these two compounds have in common is that they are both phytoestrogens, and they both up-regulate separate but related genes which are responsible for slowing down the

aging process and preventing the same debilitating diseases that can be avoided by reducing calories by 30%. Thus, these phytoestrogen compounds are being called calorie restriction (CR) mimetics. The exact mechanism of gene activation, the precise number and identities of the genes activated, and the primordial or evolutionary purpose behind these genes, remains unclear. However, renewed interest and research into life extension through calorie restriction, as well as extensive research into similar polyphenols and phytoestrogen compounds suggest that these genes evolved to prolong life during periods of near starvation. The fact that these genes can be activated with other dietary stimuli, makes them keen targets for additional life extension research.

For more information: Biovet International 5412 Bolsa Avenue STE #C Huntington Beach, CA 92649 www.biovet.net (800) 468-7578 Email: info@biovetfoods.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 115

Dr.’s Corner

Food Toxicities Life Threatening to your Pet By Elisa M. Mazzaferro MS, DVM, PhD, Diplomate ACVECC Director of Emergency Services Wheat Ridge Veterinary Specialists www.wheatridgeanimal.com

id you know that some of the foods that humans eat every day can be toxic and cause life-threatening illness in your pets? Dietary indiscretion—or eating foods that an animal is not accustomed to—is a common cause of gastrointestinal upset. Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas can occur. With Halloween and the holiday season approaching, we tend to have more sweets around, and that could spell trouble for our furry friends. Chocolate contains the compounds methylxanthine, theobromine, and caffeine, all of which can be toxic to dogs, if ingested in certain doses. Milk chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate contain less of these toxic compounds than dark chocolate, but can still be harmful. If you pet has eaten any form of chocolate, contact your veterinarian immediately. Often, they will recommend that you bring your pet in so a physical examination can be performed and they can induce vomiting to help eliminate the chocolate from the stomach. Activated charcoal can also be administered to prevent further absorption of the compounds into the bloodstream. Clinical signs of chocolate toxicity include rapid heart rate, abnormal heart rhythms, tremors, hyperexcitability, high blood pressure, muscle tremors, elevated body temperature, vomiting and seizures. If your pet has ingested a toxic amount of chocolate and is showing these abnormal signs, the pet is hospitalized and monitored for abnormal heart rhythms and seizures. Additional treatment such as intravenous fluids, drugs to support the heart, and a urinary catheter may be recommended. Most animals will be fine within 24 to 48 hours, and can go home after signs of toxicity resolve. Xylitol is a sweetener found in sugarless candy, pastries, and gum products. It’s becoming more widely used because of its low-calorie content, cavity-fighting properties and its ability to only cause a small insulin release in people, which makes it a good sugar substitute for diabetics. While xylitol

116 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

consumption is safe for humans, it can cause serious, even life-threatening signs in dogs. It can cause your dog’s blood sugar to drop so low that seizures occur and in some dogs, xylitol has been shown to destroy the liver. Signs include vomiting, lethargy, collapse, and seizures. Raisins and grapes, even in small numbers, can cause kidney failure in some dogs, cats, and ferrets. Chocolate covered raisins, coffee beans, and macadamia nuts are also favorites for humans at this time of year, but coffee beans and chocolate can cause rapid heart rate, agitation, tremors, high body temperature, and seizures. Macadamia nuts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and paralysis in dogs. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Make sure to keep any tempting foods away from your pets to avoid the hazards of accidental ingestion. If you think that your pet has ingested any food product that was not meant for them, please contact the nearest veterinary facility immediately. Don’t feed your pet anything aside from their normal diet. With some small, but important precautions, you can easily make the upcoming holiday season safe and happy one for you and your pets!

Making Your Neighbors Envious Since 1990 • We provide NATIONAL consulting, design and installation services for custom water features and water gardens. • Need a pet-friendly pond? Ask us about our filtration systems and CLEAR WATER GUARANTEE.

PONDS PAV E R S PLANTS AND MORE (303) 519-8900 or (303) 519-1597

www.p3pondsandwaterfalls.com

118 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Animal Welfare Attorney Addressing the Laws Affecting You and Your Companion Animal 111 W. Washington St., Suite 1760 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 466-7660 P (866) 334-7660 F email: admin@animalwelfareattorney.com

www.animalwelfareattorney.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 119

DOG LAW

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Human Victims, Animal Victims By Gabriela Sandoval

hat happens when victims of domestic violence have animals who are physically abused as well? How will one find a safe way out and also protect their beloved animal companions? What legal recourse is available and how can you help? While I am not an expert on domestic violence nor am I a therapist, I have come across this issue time and time again as an attorney representing both children in abusive homes and as a legal advocate for animals.

Domestic Violence conducted a study in which 84 percent of women and 63 percent of children who arrived at domestic violence shelters reported incidents of pet abuse. Abusers harm or threaten to harm animals for different reasons, including: to demonstrate power and control; instill terror and fear; gain cooperation; prevent a victim from leaving; coerce a victim to return by threatening to harm or kill the family pet; or to teach the victim "a lesson."

According to the ASPCA, the National Coalition Against

Victims of abuse are entrenched in a vicious cycle. Lives may

120 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

be at risk. If you suspect domestic violence is happening to someone you know and have concerns about their animals as well, inquire about the animals. Friends may be more willing to talk about the abuse to their animals as opposed to abuse they themselves are experiencing. What are the signs? Abusers need to be in control. They may belittle, humiliate, criticize, yell, be overly possessive, limit access to money, friends, and family. Victims demonstrate fear of their partner, may become isolated, less available, have feelings of self-loathing, helplessness, and desperation. Legal remedies that may be available vary from state to state as does the legal definition of "Domestic Violence." Some states include harm to or threats to harm a companion animal in their criminal definition when used as a means of intimidating or injuring a spouse or significant other. For example, Domestic Violence in Colorado now includes "a crime against an animal when used as a method of coercion, control, punishment, intimidation, or revenge." Also, in Colorado, a Protection Order (sometimes referred to as "restraining order") may now include an order "that prohibits the restrained person from contacting, harassing, injuring, intimidating, molesting, threatening or touching any protected animal, or from entering or remaining on premises, or from coming within a specified distance from the protected animal." Ten states in the U.S. allow animal companions to be included in orders of protection: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Louisiana, Maine, Nevada, New York, Tennessee, and Vermont. Find out more information about your state by visiting http://www.animallaw.info/statutes/. Perpetrators of violent crime including Domestic Violence or Animal Cruelty may be incarcerated or ordered to complete a mental health evaluation and complete anger management or other recommended treatment. Anger management isn't always appropriate because domestic violence isn't really about anger—it's more about control. Animal Assisted Therapy (also referred to as "AAT") can be very effective treatment or complementary treatment for both perpetrators and victims. AAT is unique therapy because of the fact that a therapy animal is present and actually plays a therapeutic role during sessions. AAT addresses bullying, helps build empathy and compassion, improves conflict resolution and relationship skills, and heightens motivation and engagement in therapy. Often, victims feel they cannot escape their situation. Feelings of shame, humiliation, hopelessness, denial, blame and fear take hold. There may be financial issues that prevent victims from fleeing. Victims also refuse to flee because they don't

want to abandon a family pet who has been or may become a victim of the abuse. Not every city or town has the resources to assist animal victims but the number is growing. There are many websites and local and national organizations that publish resources for people and animals in crisis. To find a shelter for you and your animal, visit American Humane and Ahimsa House online at: http://www. americanhumane.org/human-animal-bond/programs/petsand-womens-shelters/domestic-family-violence-shelters. html and http://www.ahimsahouse.org/directory/. If there is a safe haven for you but you can't bring your animal, be aware that some animal shelters will temporarily house animal victims. For instance, Colorado's Denver Dumb Friends League has a temporary Pet Assistance Program for people who need to protect their animals from violence in the home. A Pet Support Program in Maryland "will offer victims immediate alternative housing for their companion pet(s), providing victims the peace of mind needed to seek their own safety... and will organize a foster care network to shelter large pets, such as horses and livestock, which are just as susceptible to abuse." They can be reached by calling 410.222.8900. Find animal shelters in your area that can assist during a crisis by visiting The Humane Society of the United States online at: http://www.hsus.org/hsus_field/first_strike_the_connection_ between_animal_cruelty_and_human_violence/safe_havens_ for_animals_/online_directory_of_safe_havens_for_animals_ programs.html. With these resources at your fingertips you can really make a difference for victims of abuse—human and animal. If, in good faith, you suspect that an animal is being harmed consider calling your local humane society and requesting a "welfare check" for the animal. Not only will they go into the home to ensure the animal's safety, but if other abuse is suspected they may be required to contact local authorities. Providing direct access to local resources may empower a victim to take advantage of the support available—especially when a beloved animal's life is at risk.

For more information or to contact: Gabriela Sandoval Attorney at Law Child & Animal Welfare Law Offices of the Rocky Mountains 600 17th Street , Suite #2800 South Denver, CO 80202 (303) 954-4580 www.childandanimalaw.com Email: info@chilcandanimalaw.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 121

DOG LAW

CIVIL LAWSUITS:

What Can I Do When the Government Gets it Wrong? 122 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

By Anna Morrison-Ricordati Attorney at Law

ast year, a man called my office, distraught. He recounted the previous night's events: “The police kicked in the front door and yelled at me to surrender. I had been asleep, but then the dogs started barking and running down the stairs. Before I could get to the door, they’d shot the dogs … both of them … dead. The police showed me the warrant. It wasn’t my address. They were at the WRONG house.” Upon entering a home adjacent to the residence police were authorized to search, the police had shot and killed an innocent man’s dogs. Unfortunately, that was not the first time I had been informed of such an incident. And it has not been the last. While somewhat difficult, it is not impossible to hold the government and its employees accountable for wrongful actions taken against animals. This article addresses an individual’s right to sue the government, to challenge ordinances and government policies, and to monitor the government’s adherence to animal welfare laws.

LAWSUITS AGAINST THE GOVERNMENT Civil lawsuits against the police and other government employees are fairly common and have been applied in situations like the one described above. United States Code, Title 42, Section 1983 applies when constitutional issues are involved, such as violations of the First Amendment (freedom of speech, religion, and association), Fourth Amendment (arrest and detention, search and seizure, and use of excessive force), or Fourteenth Amendment (due process), among others. Section 1983 is a federal statute that creates a right to sue any person who, acting under color of law, deprives a person of his/her constitutional rights. It allows suits against state and local officers/employees as well as municipal government entities. It includes behavior otherwise prohibited by the letter of law but carried out with state or local government authority. Federal officers/employees may also be sued in similar “Bivens” actions. Section 1983/Bivens lawsuits have been brought by owners of dogs shot by the police during unconstitutional searches and seizures. Where no constitutional violation has occurred and where the injured party is seeking only monetary compensation, a lawsuit may be filed with the Court of Claims. Unfortunately, these suits do not include the possibility of punitive damages against individual officers or government employees. Damages for the shooting and killing of a dog could be limited to replacement costs. For most dog owners, such compensation is nowhere near the actual value of their irreplaceable companion.

CHALLENGES TO ORDINANCES AND POLICES Alternatively, where a government cites an individual for violation of a particular law, usually by way of City ordinance, the affected individual may challenge the application of that

law to his/her case. For example, in the City of Chicago, dogs accused of biting a person or other domestic animal may be impounded pursuant to Chicago’s Municipal Code (Section 7-12-050). For the entire duration of a “dangerous dog” investigation, an impounded dog is confined to an approximate 5’ x 5’ x 5’ cage. Human contact with the shelter employees is strictly limited for these dogs. Food is provided via a slot in the cage and excrement is removed by hosing the cage. Owners of impounded dogs, who are limited to weekly visits, have accused Animal Control of failing to administer their dogs’ prescribed medications and failing to provide adequate veterinary care, and have reported injuries from the impound environment. Dog owners have long objected to the daunting conditions of impound. Yet, the City Code only minimally requires that “[w]here the animal has been impounded” notice of the dangerous dog determination “shall be sent within 30 days after such impoundment.” (7-12-050 (d), (f )). In instances where dogs had been impounded past the 30-day deadline, dog owners challenged the City’s actions for failing to comply with its own procedures. These challenges were successful in obtaining the immediate release of their dogs and dismissals of the pending cases.

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT REQUESTS Still other situations involve monitoring the government’s adherence to animal welfare policies. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) ensures public access to United States government records and provides a mechanism for individuals to request information such as the results of state agency inspections of puppy breeding facilities, the number of dog fight investigations performed by a city, or the numbers of healthy animals euthanized in publicly funded shelters. While there are nine specific exemptions under FOIA, FOIA carries a presumption of disclosure. Therefore, the burden is on the government—not the public—to demonstrate why the requested information may not be released. Governments are required to disclose the information upon written request. Most federal, state, county, and local governments provide FOIA request forms on their websites. As Americans, we are lucky to live in a country where government ideals include transparency and where court systems allow individuals a means to challenge certain government actions. Great strides can be made in animal welfare when individuals take advantage of this privilege.

For more information or to contact: Anna Morrison-Ricordati AMR Law Group, LLC 111. W. Washington St., Suite 1760 Chicago, Illinois 60602 (312) 376-7660 anna@amrlawgroup.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 123

EVERYDAY DOGGIE HEROES

Good Boy, Riley!

Bulldog Saves his Family from a House Fire! By Julia Szabo With his undershot bite, tough-looking mug, and

hilariously loud snore, the English Bulldog is a canine clown— no wonder he appeared so often in the old "Merrie Melodies" cartoons! But the Bulldog has a serious side too. The proof is a brindle bully boy named Riley, who will most certainly change your perception of Bulldogs. "Riley is my hero," says his grateful owner, Nicole Kowalewski,

124 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

and she's not kidding. In June, Nicole brought Riley—then a 7-month-old pup—with her to visit her parents in New Jersey for a Father's Day celebration. With Nicole's sister and her nephews also there for the festivities, it was a full house, but she opted to stay the night instead of driving back to her boyfriend's New York City apartment. "I was going to leave," Nicole recalls. "Thank God I didn't."

OPPOSITE PAGE: Riley and co-owner Nicole Kowalewski take a rest after playing in the park. LEFT: Riley jumping for his frisbee at Brigantine Beach, NJ with Master Tim Marino. BELOW: Neighborhood angel Margot Clarke 9, presenting Mary Lou Kowalewski and her family a check for $950, which she raised from a lemonade stand she called "Cups of Kindness." Photos courtesy of Nicole Kowalewski.

you out of the house. Don't you get it? Get across the street!'" For his amateur heroics, Riley got lots of attention from the professional heroes who put out the blaze. "As we were thanking the firefighters, they were petting and thanking our dog," Nicole recalls with a smile. Nicole's family wanted to thank Riley too; her dad suggested taking the dog to a diner for a human-food feast. "I said, 'Nope, we're going to PetSmart and we're buying him anything he wants.' And that's what we did. He got so many treats: Kongs, Nylabones, rope toys, a flying disc, balls ... basically, if he was sniffing at it for more than two seconds, it went in the bag. We spent a couple hundred that day!"

Correction: Make that "Thank Dog." In the middle of the night, normally strong, silent Riley woke Nicole from her sleep with non-stop whimpering. "I used to be a heavy sleeper, but since getting Riley—he's my first dog—I like to keep an eye on him." What Riley did next surprised Nicole: "He jumped off the bed and stood by the bedroom door," she remembers. "I'm like, What's up with you? So I opened the door, and he ran down two flights, to a door in the family room that leads to the garage. I saw a flicker of light and thought, Who left the light on? But Riley wouldn't stop circling and barking until I opened the door."

Today, the blessed Bulldog truly earns his name. He's living the life of Riley, enjoying romps on the beach with his grateful "grandparents" and his girlfriend Mindy (a French Bulldog and Boston Terrier mix), rides in the Volkswagen Eos convertible—"We have a safety harness for him, and we keep the air conditioning on even with the top down, so he's always comfortable and safe," Nicole explains—plus naps on his very own Tempur-Pedic dog bed; TV time with Nicole's boyfriend (the guys enjoy watching baseball and soccer together); and meals served in a comfortable raised feeder, washed down with filtered Brita water and ice cubes. "Riley saved my family—he pretty much gets catalog order and special treatment from now on," Nicole promises. "I'm so proud of my puppy!"

It wasn't a left-on light; it was the beginning of a serious electrical fire, and part of the garage was already in flames. The home's smoke detectors hadn't yet picked it up—but Riley had, and he dutifully sounded the alarm. Nicole went upstairs to alert the rest of her family, with Riley following close at her heels. Everyone made it out, but the Kowalewski home sustained serious damage. Even after everyone was safely outside, Riley was still on high alert. He ran across the street, causing the entire family to run after him - just as an aerosol can that was stored in the garage exploded with a bang. "Riley wanted us away from the house, and he knew how to get us there," Nicole explains. For anyone who still believes dogs don't communicate, Nicole has proof to the contrary: "It's like he was saying, 'I got

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 125

H wliday Gifts for

Fido

ADOPT A DOG FROM YOUR LOCAL ANIMAL SHELTER

126 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

A MASSAGE FOR FIDO! This is a fabulous gift for Fido! Ensuring that your fourlegged canine has a stress-free lifestyle should involve massage therapy for his arthritis or old age or just because. What dog doesn’t like rubbed all over?

YOGA 4 DOGS DVD

Yoga 4 Dogs is America’s favorite DVD! Amy Stevens is a fresh face in the world of fitness and she has made it a passion to better the lives of people and their pets. A great video and makes a great gift! www.yoga4dogs.com

DOGOSCOPE CHARM “Ruffscue the Rescue collar charm and pet ID tag was lovingly created for, and dedicated to, brave rescue pups everywhere. $1 from the sale of every tag is donated to nonprofit rescue groups. www.dogoscopes.com

5. SARA ENGLAND DESIGNS Sara England has been creating whimsical art for over 25 years. She now offers her favorites as matted giclee prints. Choose from two sized prints, matted or framed. Custom art is also available. www.saraenglanddesigns.com

JUST CHICKEN TREAT Do you have finicky dog that only wants the best treats? Then this is the treat for you! Dogs go crazy over these freeze-dried chicken treats that are bite-sized and your dog won’t be able to resist. Order online at www.mouthfuls.net

TAKE YOUR DOG SHOPPING! What dog doesn’t want to go shopping for some new clothes, toys or treats? Splurge some extra cash on your dog this holiday season and take him shopping at your local specialty pet boutique! This is a great gift idea that your dog will love!

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 127

SKYLEASH GPS Keep your loved companion safe with the Skyleash from GlobeTrack Wireless. This is real-time GPS tracking for your best friend and offers peace of mind. You can locate your pet within 18 inches in seconds. www.GlobeTrackWireless.com

DUBLIN DOG COLLAR Dublin Dog is famous for their all-style-no-stink collars. They rinse clean in two seconds flat and never harbor odor-releasing bacteria. Just one more reason your best friend should wear a Dublin Dog collar! www.dublindog.com

10.

TRAINING SESSION

Having a dog that is well-mannered is such a joy to be around so consider getting yourself a gift this holiday season for your unruly dog. Or if you have friends that need a little help training their dog consider a gift certificate from a certified dog trainer in your area. This is money well spent!

11. PETZLIFE ORAL CARE This is a great product for all of you dog parents who don’t brush Fido’s teeth! Petzlife offers an oral care spray and gel which works fast and naturally to help control plaque and tartar on dogs and cats too! www.petzlife.com

12.

MULLIGAN STEW TREATS Mulligan Stew offers a great-tasting, healthy treat for dogs that is made with only the finest ingredients and are manufactured to the company’s strict standards. Dogs love these tasty treats and always come back begging for more! www.mulliganstewpetfood.com

13. NANCY ALLEN STUDIO If you want an original art sculpture, consider a paper-mache dog sculpture from artist Nancy Alllen who specializes in pet artistry in many mediums. She has a large selection to choose from so visit her Web site at www.nancyallenstudio.com

128 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

14.

WEEKEND GETAWAY Who doesn’t want to spoil their pooch with a great, relaxing weekend getaway? There are so many options to chose from; a cozy mountain cabin, a sunny beach retreat to an old-fashioned Bed & Breakfast involving some hiking. Whatever destination you choose, remember it’s all about the pooch and have fun!

15. BABY FACES CHARM Baby Faces can turn your favorite photograph into a 3-D charm. You’ll love the likeness and quality of your one-of-akind charm which will be a memorable piece of jewelry. Each charm they design is hand-crafted by jewelers in the USA. www.babyfaces.com

16.

EVANGERS TREATS Evanger’s has paired a unique variety of game meats with fruits and vegetables to provide a nutritious, well-loved treat for your pooch. Choose from a variety of flavors including Pheasant, Chicken, Buffalo or Venison all made with fruits and vegetables. www.evangersdogfood.com

17. CUSTOM PET PORTRAIT How about a custom pet portrait for a holiday gift? Artist Jane Brunton paints oil portraits of dogs, cats, birds or any pet! Place your order now for the upcoming season. Check out her Web site to see some more of her dog portrait paintings. www.the-art-station.com

18. BIOVET PET WAFERS The antioxidant pet wafer includes live enzymes rich foods and antioxidant vitamins. This powerful formula has been used for over 15 years to help pets reduce pain, restore mobility and increase vitality in animals of all ages. www.petwafer.com

19. TENDERFOOT TRAINING DVD In just a few days your dog will choose her actions according to your wishes—from great leadership, not force or bribery! Tenderfoot’s methods last a lifetime, because it is based on love, trust and respect. This is a great dvd! www.tenderfoottraining.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 129

20.

4U2REUSE POOP BAG

4U2ReUSE is a manufacturer of eco-friendly handmade bag carriers.  Their products are made in the U.S. out of reused materials and organic fabrics and are designed to store biodegradable bags for walks with the dog. Visit their Web Site for more info at www.4u2reuse.com

21. REAL FOOD TOPPERS Complete Natural Nutrition offers these great, natural freeze-dried treats for dogs and cats. Made with just one pure meat ingredient, this treat is ideal for pets with health issues or have special dietary needs. Made in the USA. www.completenaturalnutrition.com

22.

COOKING 4 CANINES COOKBOOK Amy Stevens dishes up her best homemade dog recipes for you and your dog to enjoy. Go green and order the Cooking4Canines e-book off her Web Site. While you’re at it , check out the Yoga 4 Dogs dvd and make it a package gift for your pooch! www.yoga4dogs.com

23. THE AMERICAN DOG SUBSCRIPTION Why not treat yourself and your friends to a one-year subscription to this amazing dog lifestyle magazine that is for dog lovers! Keep up to date with the latest info on health, nutrition, wellness, training, safety and more. Order a subscription online at www.theamericandogmag.com

24. “COMMIT” CHARM What better way to show your best friend that you will always be there for him than to wear a beautiful COMMIT charm for both of you! This stylish and decorative charm is made of stainless steel and looks great! Offered by The American Dog Magazine. Order online at www.theamericandogmag.com

25. DOG DAY AT THE SPA! Dogs love to be spoiled and what better way to show your love than to indulge your pooch in some tantalizing treatments at the spa where they will get waited on foot and paw by benevolent groomers! A Fabulous gift Fido will definitely enjoy!

130 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Julia Szabo's Holiday Gift Picks! 1.

These Creatures Deluxe Feeder

For a year-round holiday vibe, serve up Spot’s meals in a festive feeder by These Creatures. These powder-coated metal items combine style and substance beautifully: they’re as elegant as they are easy to clean. Plus, as Bunky the pit bull demonstrates, if you order one to match your dog’s breed, the feeder actually doubles as a functional artwork—a portrait that’s good enough to eat! To order at www.thesecreatures.com

Tempur-Pedic Pet Bed The kindest thing you can do for an elderly, arthritic dog is provide her with her very own TempurPedic bed. That’s right, the company renowned for making mattresses that adjust to a sleeper’s exact body shape now offers pressure— relieving pet beds that deliver the blissful comfort and therapeutic joint support senior dogs crave. $179-$229; call 888-225-8510 or visit www.TempurPedic.com

Swiffer Sweeper

Make cleanup easier on yourself—and keep your home holiday-fresh and ready for guests—with The Swiffer Sweeper. It’s a multitasker of a homekeeping tool that lets you sweep and mop any surface using two different kinds of cleaning cloths. The new Swiffer Wet Mopping Cloths feature three layers, with a strip for cleaning up tough, dried-on messes—yes, even muddy paw prints! www.swiffer.com

Febreze Flameless Luminaries At this time of year, candles do a lot to enhance a home’s atmosphere, but it’s not always safe to have them burning with rambunctious pups in the house. Febreze Flameless Luminaries are the pet-safest way to bring festive scent and ambient light to any area of the home—and you can change the scented shade design as the holiday spirit moves you. Try Cranberry Pear one day, Vanilla Frost the next! www.febreze.com

MBT The anti-shoe

Give yourself and your dog a holiday gift that will keep on giving: a pair of MBTs. These distinctive-looking, curve-soled “anti-shoes” help you make the most of every dog-walk. Not only will MBTs support your tired “dogs” with Masai barefoot technology, so you can stay out longer and walk farther with Spot by your side; they will help you maintain good posture and tone up your legs and butt, to boot! $215-$270, www.mbt.com

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 131

Bedtime Books Books to Read this Fall! All books reviewed by Nancy Allen

Scream Like Banshee By Tamira Ci Thayne This is a great, fun book to read to see how someone handles the responsibility and love of canines by fostering just enough—but not too many—dogs. Tamira gives us a look at 29 days of her life, self-help tips, and how and why fostering dogs is important and something everyone who loves dogs should try to do. She is a great role model who says, “screw perfect,” just do it—for the dogs.

Dog Lost By Ingrid Lee What a heart-wretching, heart-warming tale, based on a true story. This book tells how pit bulls have been misrepresented in real life. They are loving dogs unless you train and treat them to be mean animals. Animal lovers everywhere will enjoy reading this book and see the different, but rewarding, ending. Tissues recommended.

Treat Your Man Like A Dog…And Live Happily Ever After By Maia Madden Reading this book will not only be extremely interesting, it just might save your relationship. Maia asks that we look closely at the relationship we have with our dogs; by emulating the kindness, thoughtfulness and affection we give to dogs, we can try to treat our man the same way. If that happens, “you may even live happily ever after.”

132 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Don’t Dump The Dog By Randy Grim with Melinda Roth This book is hilariously entertaining and also educationally sad. For two decades, Randy has been devoting his life to rescuing dogs. He tells of the silly reasons people get rid of pets. He provides you with solutions you can use to correct some of the worst behavior problems dogs have, so that you do not have to dump the dog but have your best friend really become just that. We need more Randy Grims in the world.

Rescue Ink By Rescue Ink with Denise Flaim Ten guys with muscled, tattooed bodies realize they have been rescuing animals for years, so they get together and form Rescue Ink in order to have a greater impact on combating animal cruelty and neglect. This book is fascinating to read, proving that REAL MEN DO love animals. The guys of Rescue Ink teach children that “abusers are losers,” and put their bulging muscles to use to help educate people on how best to take care of their animals. Great holiday gift for the guy in your life.

Our Lives Have Gone To The Dogs By Audrey Spilker Hagar and Eldad Hagar What a fantastic book to read. It will educate people about how two animal-loving humans manage to love and save hundreds of animals—and will hopefully encourage others to do the same. The photographs are gorgeous, and show many of the rescued animals. The authors say that “a dog you save today, might one day save your life or at the very least, be your best friend.” All proceeds from the book go toward the rescue and rehabilitation of homeless animals.

The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 133

Bedtime Books Nubs: The True Story of a Mutt, a Marine & a Miracle By Major Brian Dennis, Kirby Larson & Mary Nethery This is an incredibly entertaining book about the loving relationship that develops between Major Brian Dennis and Nubs, an Iraqi war dog. It tells the almost unbelievable journey Nubs makes to be with the Major and how Brian gets him safely to the United States.

Nico & Lola: Kindness Shared Between a Boy and a Dog By Meggan Hill This is a wonderful book that teaches children the important lesson of being kind to animals. It is a heartwarming story about a young boy who spends a weekend watching over a relative’s dog, and it delivers positive messages of kindness. The photographs are captivating.

Wag! By Patrick McDonnell This charming book by the animal protection movement’s favorite cartoonist is about “the spirit of man’s best friend.” It tells what makes a dog’s tail wag. The answer is joyous and fans of McDonnell’s “Mutts” strip will love this book, as will everyone who loves dogs.

Stella, Unleashed By Linda Ashman This is a fascinating book of poetry, enlivened by great illustrations. Stella the dog tells you what she thinks about a variety of interesting subjects such as belly rubs, mice, things she loves, dog parks, cats, howling, prized poodles, and much more.

134 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Is you local Pet Boutique carrying

The American Dog Magazine?

The American Dog proudly promotes shopping at the independent, specialty pet boutiques for all your best friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wants and needs!

Get a free one year subscription to The American Dog Magazine when your local pet boutique signs up to sell The American Dog Magazine **they have to mention your name when they order (only 1 per store)

ATTENTION RETAILERS: Sell The American Dog Magazine in your store! Contact us at ( 303) 840-6111

Don’t miss a single issue — order the back copies of The American Dog Magazine! Order online: www.theamericandogmag.com Click on “SUBSCRIBE” then “BACK ISSUES”

or call in your order at: (303) 840-6111

136 Fall 2009 | The American Dog Magazine

Who are Your

4 Fave Friends?

Order The American Dog Magazine for your Friends! The American Dog Magazine is published quarterly in the spring, summer, fall & winter.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY and save 17% off of the newsstand price of $5.95 per issue. Discounted price is $20 for a one-year subscription— a great way to spend $100 for your 4 fave today! (a gift card will be mailed to your friends letting them know you ordered a one-year subscription for them)

Name: Address: City/State/Zip: Phone: Email:

$20

Name: Address: City/State/Zip: Phone: Email:

$20

Name: Address: City/State/Zip: Phone: Email:

$20

Name: Address: City/State/Zip: Phone: Email:

$20

Please make check payable to: The Dog Publishing, LLC **Your first subscription will start with the subsequent issue on newsstands now. (for example, the fall issue is on sale now. When you subscribe, your first magazine will start with the winter issue, Jan.1st)

Mail to: The Dog Publishing, LLC • 20269 E. Smoky Hill Rd., Suite #136, Centennial, CO 80015 The American Dog Magazine | Fall 2009 137

irl

;*â&#x201A;Ź,

: :

' "a ti+.., -"'E#

-*utt

7\ r, 1,r,'

1-i

ryt

,',r,??lii ',''

. _

.-,...- .-

r.+l '' "1't,.--'

11'.1i. -"_***

$$"

t ) 1t')l

;.r

icr

lrr

,.:sA

v*tr

!, :','1

:' /i|!;!li

*#J*

,@ ''

- l-3 r'1.1 -, -

:1!

r..!: